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One Arm Chin-Up

Middle Back Biceps Forearms Lats Expert Strength Other
One Arm Chin-Up One Arm Chin-Up
Equipment
Other
Level
Expert
Force
Pull
Mechanic
Compound
Instructions
  1. For this exercise, start out by placing a towel around a chin up bar.
  2. Grab the chin-up bar with your palm facing you. One hand will be grabbing the chin-up bar and the other will be grabbing the towel.
  3. Bring your torso back around 30 degrees or so while creating a curvature on your lower back and sticking your chest out. This is your starting position.v
  4. Pull your torso up until the bar touches your upper chest by drawing the shoulders and the upper arms down and back. Exhale as you perform this portion of the movement. Tip: Concentrate on squeezing the back muscles once you reach the full contracted position. The upper torso should remain stationary as it moves through space and only the arms should move. The forearms should do no other work other than hold the bar.
  5. After a second on the contracted position, start to inhale and slowly lower your torso back to the starting position when your arms are fully extended and the lats are fully stretched.
  6. Repeat this motion for the prescribed amount of repetitions.
  7. Switch arms and repeat the movement.
Frequently asked questions
What muscles does the One Arm Chin-Up work?

One Arm Chin-Up primarily targets the Middle Back. It also engages the Biceps, Forearms, Lats as secondary muscles. This makes it an effective strength exercise for building middle back development.

What equipment do I need for the One Arm Chin-Up?

You will need an other to perform the One Arm Chin-Up. Make sure the equipment is set up properly and at the appropriate weight before starting.

Is the One Arm Chin-Up suitable for beginners?

The One Arm Chin-Up is an advanced exercise that requires significant strength experience and proper form. It is not recommended for beginners. Build a solid foundation with simpler movements first, and consider working with a trainer before attempting this exercise.

Is the One Arm Chin-Up a compound or isolation exercise?

The One Arm Chin-Up is a compound exercise, meaning it works multiple joints and muscle groups simultaneously. Compound movements are efficient for building overall strength and are typically performed earlier in a workout when you have the most energy.

How many sets and reps should I do for the One Arm Chin-Up?

For strength, aim for 3-5 sets of 5-8 reps with heavier weight. For muscle building (hypertrophy), try 3-4 sets of 8-12 reps at a moderate weight. For endurance, use lighter weight and perform 2-3 sets of 15-20 reps.

What are good alternatives to the One Arm Chin-Up?

Good alternatives include the Alternating Kettlebell Row, Alternating Renegade Row, Bent Over Barbell Row. These exercises target similar muscle groups (Middle Back) and can be substituted based on available equipment or training preference.

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