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Wide-Grip Rear Pull-Up

Lats Biceps Middle Back Shoulders Intermediate Strength Body Only
Wide-Grip Rear Pull-Up Wide-Grip Rear Pull-Up
Equipment
Body Only
Level
Intermediate
Force
Pull
Mechanic
Compound
Instructions
  1. Grab the pull-up bar with the palms facing forward using a wide grip.
  2. As you have both arms extended in front of you holding the bar, bring your torso forward and head so that there is an imaginary line from the pull-up bar to the back of your neck. This is your starting position.
  3. Pull your torso up until the bar is near the back of your neck. To do this, draw the shoulders and upper arms down and back while slightly leaning your head forward. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. Repeat this motion for the prescribed amount of repetitions.
Frequently asked questions
What muscles does the Wide-Grip Rear Pull-Up work?

Wide-Grip Rear Pull-Up primarily targets the Lats. It also engages the Biceps, Middle Back, Shoulders as secondary muscles. This makes it an effective strength exercise for building lats development.

Do I need equipment for the Wide-Grip Rear Pull-Up?

No. The Wide-Grip Rear Pull-Up is a bodyweight exercise that requires no equipment. It can be performed anywhere with enough space.

Is the Wide-Grip Rear Pull-Up suitable for beginners?

The Wide-Grip Rear Pull-Up is an intermediate exercise. You should have a solid foundation of basic strength movements before attempting it. If you're new to training, start with simpler variations and progress to this exercise as your form and strength improve.

Is the Wide-Grip Rear Pull-Up a compound or isolation exercise?

The Wide-Grip Rear Pull-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 Wide-Grip Rear Pull-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 Wide-Grip Rear Pull-Up?

Good alternatives include the Band Assisted Pull-Up, Bent-Arm Barbell Pullover, Cable Incline Pushdown. These exercises target similar muscle groups (Lats) and can be substituted based on available equipment or training preference.

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