Pull Ups - starting out

FEARofGOD · 02-09-2008, 11:08 AM

I'm wanting to start to do pull ups but find it hard doing anymore then 2. currently weigh in at 210lbs (which i don't mind), but just can't seem to get the muscles lifting me.

Anyone have any pointers on how to go about building the strength and technique to get going?

**chrispghmuscle** · 02-09-2008, 11:40 AM

Are you performing the pull ups with just your weight? If so and it's the first time doing them, you need to build up to doing more reps.. There the best back mass builder out there. But bodyweight pull ups are tough..

FEARofGOD · 02-09-2008, 11:51 AM

yeah just body weight. I can't see any other excersise that is anywhere near as good for the back as a whole!

Is it worth using a spotter? Or is that just cheating?

**chrispghmuscle** · 02-09-2008, 11:57 AM

If you have access to a spotter, it is very benefical...

KM · 02-09-2008, 12:33 PM

Chin ups usually are one of the best exercises for width, not so much mass. Not much to say, just keep doing them. Eventually, you'll begin doing 3-4-5 and will get yourself to 10 in no time. You could use a spotter if possible.

**mr_bhana** · 02-09-2008, 12:37 PM

i started out with partial reps instead of stretching all the way down, which i now do.. eventually youll be able to do full reps like its nothing! try partial reps or use an assissted machine if your gym has one, or you could get a spotter to push you up from the knees, a narrower grip is also easier and then you can gradually go wider!

FEARofGOD · 02-09-2008, 12:39 PM

cheers guys. I've started narrower grip (just wider than shoulder). Suppose i'll just keep at it!

KM · 02-09-2008, 01:13 PM

Good to here! No problem man

LBblitz · 02-09-2008, 02:58 PM

When starting out do everything you can to make the lift easier, narrow grip, partial reps, spotter, etc.. Then once you can start getting 8-10 reps gradually start making the lift harder,,, more full ROM reps, different hand adjustments, widen your grip, and eventual removal of spotter.

You will work your way up there. Pull ups are the are one of the easiest things to get good at. I couldnt do ANY when I first started training. now I can superset a set of 10 between every exercise on back day

Good Luck!

monkeybiker · 02-09-2008, 03:10 PM

Try doing negatives. Stand on a bench to get into the top position and slowly lower yourself doing as many reps as you can.

musclemaniac uk · 02-09-2008, 03:15 PM

try lee haywards approach to improving your pull ups. start off with 10 sets of 2 reps, once you can do the full 10 sets with ease progress to 10 sets of 3reps and so on. when you reach 10 sets of 5 reps, bring the amount of sets down to 8 and do 6 reps. and progress like this until you can do 6sets of 8 reps or even more. i used/use this technique and it helped me out alot.

LBblitz · 02-09-2008, 03:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by musclemaniac uk

try lee haywards approach to improving your pull ups. start off with 10 sets of 2 reps, once you can do the full 10 sets with ease progress to 10 sets of 3reps and so on. when you reach 10 sets of 5 reps, bring the amount of sets down to 8 and do 6 reps. and progress like this until you can do 6sets of 8 reps or even more. i used/use this technique and it helped me out alot.

Hmmmmmmmmmmmmm.....

Good idea. God idea! I really like that. I am in the process of training 2 noobs (New Years Resolutions) and they have the hardest time doing pullups. They have very strong backs but just cant seem to do pullups. Def gonna try that technique.