How to Do Assisted Pull Ups With Resistance Bands

How to Do Assisted Pull Ups With Resistance Bands
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To do a regular pullup, you have to lift your entire body weight against gravity. If you cannot do a regular pullup, use a pullup resistance band to assist you. These are special bands designed for the pullup exercise; do not use a regular resistance band, as it will not support your weight. Pullup bands are available in several tensions -- the higher the tension, the more the band assists you. As you become stronger, use lighter bands so you are doing more of the work.

Step 1

Wrap the band over the pullup bar. Pullup bands are large loops.

Step 2

Position the band so about 1/4 of the band hangs on one side of the bar and 3/4 of the band hangs on the other side of the bar.

Step 3

Grab the bottom of the long end of the band and loop it through the short end of the band. Pull it tight.

Step 4

Grab the bar with a slightly wider than shoulder-width, overhand grip and place one foot in the bottom loop of the band. The band will stretch.

Step 5

Exhale and pull up to the bar. As you pull, the band contracts to its original length providing you with a boost.

Tips and Warnings

  • Some pullup racks have pegs that extend out near the bottom of the apparatus. You can also wrap a band around these pegs so it extends horizontally across the rack, parallel to the pullup bar. Place one or both feet on the band to perform assisted pullups. Depending on the length of the band, you can also place a knee in the band, instead of your foot.
  • Make sure the band is secure before you start the exercise. Do not use the band if it has any tears or rips. Consult a physician before starting any exercise program.

References

Article reviewed by RandyS Last updated on: Sep 12, 2011

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