4
votes
2answers
5k views

What muscles are targeted by these different variations of pull-ups: standard, chin-ups, and the neutral or parallel close grip pull-up?

What muscles or muscle groups are targeted by these different variations of pull-ups: 1.) standard (overhanded), 2.) chin-ups (underhanded), and 3.) the neutral or parallel close grip pull-out (thumb ...
8
votes
4answers
2k views

How can I reconcile the need for rest with “greasing the groove” on pull ups?

I'm currently doing Stronglifts 5x5, and I've read a lot of material about strength training. Everything I've read so far indicates that sufficient rest is essential to making progress and building ...
7
votes
1answer
2k views

Where should our legs be when we do pull-ups or chin-ups?

I often see people doing pull-ups / chin-ups with knees bent such that their legs are "hanging" behind. Shouldn't the legs be straight down, perpendicular to the ground? Where should our legs be ...
8
votes
2answers
1k views

What difference does hand/arm position make in chin-ups

What difference, if any, will it make if my hands are over the bar rather away from me or behind the bar towards me when doing a chin-up? Does this work different sets of muscles? Is one more ...
17
votes
5answers
2k views

What exercises are good to build up to performing chin-ups?

I can't do a single decent chin-up, are there any easy alternatives that I could build up in quantity as a forerunner to being able to do chin-ups? Alternatively are there are any weights exercises ...