Back · Pull Up Bar

Muscle Up

Pull, then push, and clear the bar to your waist.

Muscle Up exercise demonstration
BackSecondary: BicepsPull Up Bar

How to do it

  1. Grip the bar a bit wider than your shoulders, palms facing away.
  2. Pull explosively, driving your chest up toward the bar.
  3. As you reach the top, throw your shoulders forward and transition over the bar.
  4. Press down to lock out with the bar at your waist, then lower under control.

The one cue that matters

The pull and the transition are everything, build the explosive pull before chasing the full muscle-up.

Muscles worked

The Muscle Up is a Back-first movement, with Biceps working as the supporting cast. Track it consistently and you'll see exactly how it feeds your back volume for the week.

FAQ

What muscles does the Muscle Up work?

The Muscle Up primarily works the Back with Biceps assisting.

What if I can't do many reps yet?

Shorten the range or use an easier variation, and stop 1 to 2 reps before failure. Reps build fast when you train just shy of your limit.

How many sets and reps of Muscle Up?

For most lifters 3 to 4 working sets. Pick the rep range that fits your goal and progress the load when the top of the range feels owned.

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