Pull

Negative Pull-ups

Beginner Level 35/100

Same as chin-up negatives but with a pronated (pull-up) grip. Pronation is slightly harder than supination, so pull-up negatives are a greater challenge and the standard method for building specific pull-up strength.

Negative Pull-ups
LevelBeginner-Intermediate
Sets3-4 × 4-6 reps (5-8 sec descent)
Rest2 min
EquipmentPull-up bar, Rings

Execution

Get chin over the bar (pronated grip, palms facing away). Lower slowly in 5-10 seconds, controlling every centimeter, to a full hang. Step down and repeat.

Shoulder care at the end

In the last degrees of elbow extension (full hang) the shoulder is at its most open. Keep the scapulae slightly active—do not let the shoulders shrug up to the ears at the bottom.

Effective combo

Pair negatives with Australian pull-ups in the same session. Rows build horizontal back strength; negatives build vertical pull-up-specific strength.

Goal

3×5 negatives of 5+ seconds before attempting full pull-ups.

Related

More Pull exercises