MSU Extension Physical Activity

Strength Training Basics - Pull Ups

March 10, 2026

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To perform pull-ups, stand in front of a pull-up bar and grab the bar with either an overhand or underhand grip. This grip should be just outside shoulder width apart. Let the body hang and engage the abdominals, and keeping your chest up and core tight, lift yourself so that your chest or your chin comes in contact with the bar, pausing slightly at the top and lowering yourself slowly. The key to this exercise is keeping your abdominals nice and tight and trying to get as high as you can during the movement.