{"id":8567,"date":"2022-11-23T17:24:00","date_gmt":"2022-11-23T18:24:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/?p=8567"},"modified":"2022-11-23T22:04:27","modified_gmt":"2022-11-23T22:04:27","slug":"the-5-best-pull-up-alternatives-how-to-do-pull-ups-without-a-bar","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"http:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/everything-else\/the-5-best-pull-up-alternatives-how-to-do-pull-ups-without-a-bar\/","title":{"rendered":"The 5 Best Pull-up Alternatives (How to Do Pull-ups Without a Bar)"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><img loading=\"lazy\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3841296\" src=\"https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/kermit-pink-panther-hanging.jpg\" alt=\"A picture of Kermit hanging with Pink Panther, probably trying a pull-up alternative.\" width=\"727\" height=\"333\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/kermit-pink-panther-hanging.jpg 727w, https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/kermit-pink-panther-hanging-300x137-1.jpg 300w, https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/kermit-pink-panther-hanging-713x327-1.jpg 713w, https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/kermit-pink-panther-hanging-610x279-1.jpg 610w, https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/kermit-pink-panther-hanging-600x275-1.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 727px) 100vw, 727px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><b>So you want to do a pull-up but don\u2019t have a bar?<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Or maybe you just don\u2019t quite have the strength yet to hoist yourself up?<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Either way, no problem!<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>We\u2019ve been teaching people how to do pull-up alternatives in our <\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nerdfitness.com\/coaching-overview-page\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><b>Online Coaching Program<\/b><\/a><b>\u00a0with &#8220;no-bar pull-ups.&#8221;<\/b>\u00a0Today, we\u2019ll show you all these tried and trusted workarounds.<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Here\u2019s what we\u2019ll cover<\/span>:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"#pull-up-alternatives\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to do pull-ups without a bar (5 pull-up alternatives)<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"#first-pull-up\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The 6 best pull-up alternative exercises (How to get your first pull-up)<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"#easiest-pull-up\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What is the easiest type of pull-up? (Start with chin-ups)<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"#do-pull-up\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When should I do my pull-up alternatives? (Next steps)<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>By the way, all of these pull-up alternatives can be done in <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">our sweet new app<\/span>.<\/strong> Why not learn how to lift yourself up (even without any equipment) while you build your very own superhero?<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>You can test drive it for free (no credit card needed) right here:<\/strong><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<div class=\"nf-in-post-signup-leadin\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"nf-in-post-signup\" style=\"background: none; border: none;\">\n\t\t\t\t<a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/click.nerdfitness.com\/8BxQ\/a0e2674e\" rel=\"noopener\"><br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<img class=\"desktop-show mobile-hide\" style=\"margin-left:auto; margin-right: auto;\" src=\"https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/NF_Journey_BodyweightWorkout_Desktop_V1A.jpg\" \/><br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<img class=\"desktop-hide mobile-show\" src=\"https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/NF_Journey_BodyweightWorkout_Mobile_v1A.jpg\" \/><br \/>\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Alright, let\u2019s do this thang.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span id=\"more-3841278\"><\/span><\/p>\n<h2><a name=\"pull-up-alternatives\"><\/a>How to Do Pull-ups Without a Bar (5 Pull-up Alternatives)<\/h2>\n<p>\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"No chin-up bar?? No problem! Five alternatives!!\" width=\"950\" height=\"534\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/7RzPW-nVfuk?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/p>\n<p><strong>The video above comes from our Chin-up Challenge (<a href=\"https:\/\/click.nerdfitness.com\/8BxQ\/dee97d26\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">which you can do in our app<\/a>).\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Coach Jim walks you through 5 different levels of pull-up alternatives, depending on your experience level and what items you may have lying around the house.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Pull-up Alternative #1: <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Doorway Rows<\/span><\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Our first alternative is to simply use your doorway for <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nerdfitness.com\/blog\/inverted-row-are-you-missing-out-on-this-great-exercise\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">bodyweight rows<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-3841279\" src=\"https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/doorway-row-jim.gif\" alt=\"A gif of Coach Jim showing you a doorway row, our first pull-up alternative.\" width=\"460\" height=\"255\" \/><\/p>\n<p><strong><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">To perform a doorway row<\/span>:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Stand in front of your doorway and grab both sides.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Place your feet a little closer to the doorway, so you\u2019re leaning back.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sit back so you put weight on your arms.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pull yourself forward.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">That\u2019s it. The more you lean back, the tougher this will be.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To start, you can also just hang back to start building some \u201cpull\u201d strength.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-3831706\" src=\"https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/hang_doorway.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"459\" height=\"258\" \/><\/p>\n<h3><b>Pull-up Alternative #2: <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Towel Doorway Rows<\/span><\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Our next alternative is to do doorway rows, but this time using a towel.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-3831705\" src=\"https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/row_doorwaytowel.gif\" alt=\"A towel can help you do a bodyweight row, as shown here.\" width=\"460\" height=\"259\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The towel might help you lean back even further, creating a more challenging exercise.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Take a towel, and fold it twice lengthwise. Then take your long, folded-over towel, and tie it around the door on the handle opposite side of you.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Make sure the door opens AWAY from you. You don\u2019t want the door accidentally opening, which could cause an unexpected tumble.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Once you have your towel secured around the doorknob, perform rows by using each side of the towel.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Pull-up Alternative #3: <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Inverted Rows with Chairs<\/span><\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For this pull-up alternative, you\u2019re gonna need two sturdy chairs and a broomstick (or dowel).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">We\u2019ll be combining them together, Voltron style, to form our own row station:<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-3831702\" src=\"https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/row_dowel.gif\" alt=\"This gif shows Jim doing a row on chairs\" width=\"459\" height=\"258\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The important thing here is the setup. Give your newly created station a few gentle pushes to check the integrity of the structure. Only when you feel confident should you <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nerdfitness.com\/blog\/inverted-row-are-you-missing-out-on-this-great-exercise\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">start performing inverted bodyweight rows<\/a>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Pull-up Alternative #4: <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Towel Pull-ups<\/span><\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Now, we\u2019re gonna start doing some actual pull-ups&#8230;with towels.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-3831693\" src=\"https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/chinup_towel.gif\" alt=\"\" width=\"460\" height=\"259\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can either use a couple of sturdy hand towels or washcloths.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tie an overhand knot in the corner of both towels, which will be used as your anchor.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Then place these knots over a door and close it. Make sure the knots are secure before you start doing your pull-ups.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Again, you&#8217;ll also want to make sure the door opens AWAY from you.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Doing towel pull-ups is going to be a great way to <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nerdfitness.com\/blog\/how-to-improve-your-wrist-mobility-and-grip-strength\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">improve your grip strength<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, although if you find them a little too tough, you can use a stool to support your feet as you lift. This will help as you build strength.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Pull-up Alternative #5: <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Strap Pull-ups<\/span><\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You may or may not have some Forearm Forklifts hanging around, but if you do, you\u2019ll have the perfect equipment for a pull-up alternative.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Forearm-Forklift-Appliances-Mattresses-L74995CN\/dp\/B008ASBLJI\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Forearm Forklifts<\/a> are made to help you and a friend lift heavy furniture or equipment, but Coach Jim discovered they\u2019re also pretty useful for doing pull-ups.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-3841284\" src=\"https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/doorway-chin-up-straps.gif\" alt=\"This gif shows Coach Jim using Forearm Forklift straps to do this pull-up alternative.\" width=\"460\" height=\"255\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">They have loops designed to hold your arms, which makes them easier to grip than a towel.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tie a knot in them just like you would with a hand towel and use it to anchor them against your door.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><em>For more ideas on how to train with stuff you may have around the house, check out <\/em><em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nerdfitness.com\/blog\/how-to-build-a-home-gym-the-ultimate-guide-for-garage-gym-ideas\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">How to Build a Home Gym (When All Equipment is Sold Out)<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n<h2><a name=\"first-pull-up\"><\/a>The 6 Best Pull-up Alternatives (How to Get Your First Pull-Up)<\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-3841297\" src=\"https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/mouse-hanging.jpg\" alt=\"This is a picture of a mouse hanging, who is trying to get his pull-up alternative.\" width=\"647\" height=\"368\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/mouse-hanging.jpg 955w, https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/mouse-hanging-300x171-1.jpg 300w, https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/mouse-hanging-713x405-1.jpg 713w, https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/mouse-hanging-768x437-1.jpg 768w, https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/mouse-hanging-610x347-1.jpg 610w, https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/mouse-hanging-600x341-1.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 647px) 100vw, 647px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><b><i>This section is taken from our guide \u201c<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nerdfitness.com\/blog\/do-a-pull-up\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Get Your First Pull-up.<\/a>\u201d<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you can\u2019t quite hoist yourself up yet, don\u2019t fret!<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">We\u2019re going to work on increasing your \u201cpull\u201d muscles through a series of pull-up alternatives.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">First up\u2026<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Level 1 Pull-up Alternative: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nerdfitness.com\/blog\/the-bent-over-row-the-ultimate-guide-for-dumbbell-and-barbell-row-training\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Bent-Over Dumbbell Rows<\/a><\/b><\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-3635721 size-full aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/dumbbell-row.gif\" alt=\"This pull exercise can help you build muscles so you can eventually do pull-ups!\" width=\"398\" height=\"224\" \/><\/p>\n<p><strong>Bent-over dumbbell rows:\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">8 reps each arm (or as many as you can do)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rest for a 2-minute break<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Do another set<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Repeat until you hit 3 sets<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nerdfitness.com\/blog\/strength-training-101-how-much-weight-should-i-be-lifting\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What weight should you start out with initially?<\/span><\/i><\/a><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Whatever allows you to get to at least 5 reps a set.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Once you can do 3 sets of 8 reps (each arm), it\u2019s time to pick up a heavier dumbbell.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This will allow you to get stronger and stronger.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When you can lift a 25-pound (10kg) dumbbell or heavier, consider moving up to the next level.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Level 2 Pull-up Alternative: Inverted Bodyweight Rows<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-3585382 size-full aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/steve-inverted-row-1.gif\" alt=\"The inverted row is a great way to develop your &quot;pull&quot; and back muscles.\" width=\"480\" height=\"270\" \/><\/p>\n<p><b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nerdfitness.com\/blog\/inverted-row-are-you-missing-out-on-this-great-exercise\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Bodyweight rows<\/a> are the PERFECT precursor to pull-ups <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u2013 they work the same muscles, and have you lifting your own body weight, just at a different angle.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Our goal here will be to work towards a lower and lower angle, increasing the difficulty of the movement.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">So at first, we\u2019ll do rows with the bar higher up:<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-3585378 size-full aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/staci-incline-inverted-row.gif\" alt=\"Start with inclined inverted rows for your pull-up workout. Then drop lower for more required effort.\" width=\"480\" height=\"270\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Then we\u2019ll progress to getting the bar lower:<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-3585379 size-full aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/staci-bodyweight-row.gif\" alt=\"Add bodyweight rows to your workouts\" width=\"480\" height=\"270\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As soon as you\u2019re doing bodyweight rows where your body is at a 45-degree angle or lower, you can progress to the next level.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Level 3 Pull-up Alternative: Assisted Pull-ups<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">At this point, you are going to start actually doing pull-ups&#8230;with a little bit of assistance.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">We&#8217;ve got a few options for you.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>#1) Assisted Pull-ups with Chair<\/b><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-3585411 size-full aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/assisted-pull-up-chair.gif\" alt=\"A chair can be a great tool to help you get your first pull-up.\" width=\"480\" height=\"270\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Either one foot or two on the chair, depending on your needs. Your feet are ONLY there for support, use your upper body as much as possible.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>#2) Assisted Pull-ups with an Exercise Band<\/b><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-3585413 size-full aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/assisted-pull-up-staci.gif\" alt=\"Staci using a band for an assisted pull-up, a great exercise for a bodyweight circuit.\" width=\"480\" height=\"270\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can get different types of exercise bands with different levels of strength, or a variety pack for easy progression.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Put your foot in the exercise band and pull yourself up.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>#3) Assisted Pull-ups with a Partner<\/b><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-3585414 size-full aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/pull-up-friend.gif\" alt=\"A friend can be a great asset when you&#039;re trying to do a pull-up.\" width=\"480\" height=\"270\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Have a friend hold your feet behind you and help you complete each rep. Have them use the least amount of help possible to get you through your workouts.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Once you\u2019re comfortable doing a form of assisted pull-ups, and can do about 10 repetitions, it\u2019s time to advance to the next level.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>This is probably the TOUGHEST level before getting your pull-ups. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you get stuck on \u201cassisted pull-ups\u201d and \u201cassisted chin-ups\u201d, you\u2019re not alone. This is where most people get stuck.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">We work hand-in-hand with people like you to get them their first pull-up in our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nerdfitness.com\/coaching-overview-page\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Online Coaching Program<\/a>. If you don\u2019t know how to fit these movements into your workouts, or you just want somebody to give you the exact workout to follow every day, we got you!<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\t<a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nerdfitness.com\/coaching-overview-page\/\" rel=\"noopener\"><br \/>\n\t\t<button class=\"cta-button yellow\"><br \/>\n\t\t\tNo guesswork. No confusion. Just a workout program that\u2019s customized for you.\t\t<\/button><br \/>\n\t<\/a><br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Level 4 Pull-Up Workout: Negative Pull-Ups<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-3585415 size-full aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/negative-pull-up.gif\" alt=\"Staci jumping up to do a negative pull-up., a great movement until you can bring regular pull-ups into your circuit.\" width=\"480\" height=\"270\" \/><\/p>\n<p><strong>Our next level on our path for a pull-up is what we call \u201cnegative pull-ups.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Grab onto the bar with an overhand grip<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Jump so your chest is touching<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Slowly lower yourself under control until you\u2019re at the bottom of the movement.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As you continue to lower yourself down, you\u2019ll build strength, eventually creating enough muscle so you can pull yourself up.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you want more specific instructions on any of these levels or movements, check out our guide \u201c<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nerdfitness.com\/blog\/do-a-pull-up\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Get Your First Pull-up<\/a>\u201d for more<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><a name=\"easiest-pull-up\"><\/a>What Is the Easiest Type of Pull-Up? (Start With Chin-Ups)<\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-3655962\" src=\"https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/pull-up-vs-chin-up.jpg\" alt=\"Staci showing a pull-up to the left and a chin-up to the right.\" width=\"498\" height=\"373\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/pull-up-vs-chin-up.jpg 990w, https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/pull-up-vs-chin-up-300x225-1.jpg 300w, https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/pull-up-vs-chin-up-768x575-1.jpg 768w, https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/pull-up-vs-chin-up-713x534-1.jpg 713w, https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/pull-up-vs-chin-up-600x449-1.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 498px) 100vw, 498px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><b>The easiest pull-up variation for you to attempt will likely be the chin-up.<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">That\u2019s why <a href=\"https:\/\/click.nerdfitness.com\/8BxQ\/dee97d26\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">we have a <\/a><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Chin-up Challenge in our app<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, because we feel Rebels will have an easier time lifting themselves up with this variation, compared to a traditional pull-up.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For reference:<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A <\/span><b>CHIN-UP<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is when your hands are facing toward you:<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3585418\" src=\"https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/chin-up-staci.gif\" alt=\"A chin-up is a pull-up, but with your hands facing towards you.\" width=\"480\" height=\"270\" \/><\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A <\/span><b>PULL-UP<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is when your hands are facing away from you:<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3585416\" src=\"https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/pull-up-staci.gif\" alt=\"The classic pull-up\" width=\"480\" height=\"270\" \/><\/p>\n<p><b>Chin-ups are generally easier to perform than pull-ups<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0because the wider grip of a pull-up isolates your lats, which means you get less assistance from your biceps.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Start with chin-ups<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Once you get comfortable doing them, you can then work on more advanced variations. For ideas here, check out our guide <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nerdfitness.com\/blog\/how-to-do-a-proper-pull-up-and-why-you-need-to-do-them\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to Do a Pull-up<\/span><\/i><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><a name=\"do-pull-up\"><\/a>When Should I Do My Pull-Up Alternatives? (Next Steps)<\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-3749633\" src=\"https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/lego-spider-man.jpg\" alt=\"There are a lot of versions of Spider-Man out there.\" width=\"604\" height=\"316\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/lego-spider-man.jpg 2043w, https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/lego-spider-man-300x157-1.jpg 300w, https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/lego-spider-man-768x402-1.jpg 768w, https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/lego-spider-man-713x373-1.jpg 713w, https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/lego-spider-man-600x314-1.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 604px) 100vw, 604px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><b>Generally, you want a 48 to 72-hour resting period before returning to train the same muscle group.<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">So take at least a day off before working on your \u201cpull\u201d muscles again.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This allows the area to heal properly so you can grow stronger.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When we designed a training routine for <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nerdfitness.com\/prime-overview-page\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nerd Fitness Prime<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> members to get their first chin-up<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, we aimed for three workouts a week.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you\u2019re trying to <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nerdfitness.com\/blog\/do-a-pull-up\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">get your first pull-up or chin-up<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, this would be a good goal.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">So for example, you could do:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><b>Monday:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Bodyweight Rows<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><b>Wednesday:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Chin-up Negatives<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><b>Friday:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Dumbbell Rows<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You could also do Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Even just working out Monday and Thursday &#8211; twice a week pull-up training &#8211; would allow you to see some great progress.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>Feel free to do whatever works best for you.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-3588340\" src=\"https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/you-do-you.gif\" alt=\"As this gif explains, you do you when it comes to bulking up.\" width=\"353\" height=\"200\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you want any more help with designing your workout, we got you.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Check out the option that best fits your goals<\/span>:<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><b>Option #1)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> If you want a professional coach in your pocket, who can do video form checks, provide feedback, and adjust your workouts based on the equipment you have available, check out our <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nerdfitness.com\/coaching-overview-page\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1-on-1 Online Coaching Program<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">!\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For example, let\u2019s say you find yourself stuck indoors during a pandemic, and you want somebody to custom-build you a workout program based on the equipment and furniture you have. That\u2019s where an online coach is a game-changer!\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Personally, I\u2019ve been working with the same online coach since 2015 and it\u2019s changed my life. You can learn more by clicking on the image below:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nerdfitness.com\/coaching-overview-page\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img loading=\"lazy\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-3550464 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/NERD-CoachingBanner2019-30-Ad2a-Pullup-web75-713x403-1.jpg\" data-fslightbox=\"gallery1\"><\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong><b>Option #2) Exercising at home and need a plan to follow? Check out Nerd Fitness Journey!<\/b><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Our fun habit-building app helps you exercise more frequently, eat healthier, and level up your life (literally).<\/p>\n<p><strong>Plus, it&#8217;ll teach you how to do pull-ups, even if you have zero experience (or any equipment).\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Try your free trial right here:<\/p>\n<div class=\"nf-in-post-signup-leadin\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"nf-in-post-signup\" style=\"background: none; border: none;\">\n\t\t\t\t<a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/click.nerdfitness.com\/8BxQ\/a0e2674e\" rel=\"noopener\"><br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<img class=\"desktop-show mobile-hide\" style=\"margin-left:auto; margin-right: auto;\" src=\"https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/NF_Journey_BodyweightWorkout_Desktop_V1A.jpg\" \/><br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<img class=\"desktop-hide mobile-show\" src=\"https:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/NF_Journey_BodyweightWorkout_Mobile_v1A.jpg\" \/><br \/>\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<p><b>Option #3) Become part of the Rebellion!<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> We need good people like you in our community, the Nerd Fitness Rebellion.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Enlist below and we\u2019ll send you <\/b><b>our free <strong><i><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Strength Training 101: Everything You Need to Know<\/span>:<\/i><\/strong><\/b><\/p>\n<div class=\"nf-in-post-signup-leadin\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"nf-in-post-signup one-column split yellow-cta strength-101 shortcode-form-13 \">\n<div class=\"nf-signup-intro\">\n<div><span style=\"font-weight:700\"><span class=\"pre\">Download our comprehensive guide<\/span> <span class=\"extra\">STRENGTH TRAINING 101!<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"nf-signup-benefit\">\n<ul>\n<li>Everything you need to know about getting strong.<\/li>\n<li>Workout routines for bodyweight AND weight training.<\/li>\n<li>How to find the right gym and train properly in one.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"nf-signup-form\"><img class=\"asset-image\" src=\"&gt;\" \/><\/p>\n<form accept-charset=\"UTF-8\" action=\"https:\/\/app.convertkit.com\/forms\/3351751\/subscriptions\" data-sv-form=\"3351751\" data-uid=\"7a45ac8ba2\" data-version=\"5\" class=\"infusion-form\" data-options=\"{&quot;settings&quot;:{&quot;after_subscribe&quot;:{&quot;action&quot;:&quot;redirect&quot;,&quot;success_message&quot;:&quot;Success! Now check your email to confirm your subscription.&quot;,&quot;redirect_url&quot;:&quot;https:\/\/www.nerdfitness.com\/one-last-step\/&quot;},&quot;analytics&quot;:{&quot;google&quot;:null,&quot;fathom&quot;:null,&quot;facebook&quot;:null,&quot;segment&quot;:null,&quot;pinterest&quot;:null,&quot;sparkloop&quot;:null,&quot;googletagmanager&quot;:null},&quot;modal&quot;:{&quot;trigger&quot;:&quot;timer&quot;,&quot;scroll_percentage&quot;:null,&quot;timer&quot;:5,&quot;devices&quot;:&quot;all&quot;,&quot;show_once_every&quot;:15},&quot;powered_by&quot;:{&quot;show&quot;:false,&quot;url&quot;:&quot;https:\/\/convertkit.com\/features\/forms?utm_campaign=poweredby&amp;utm_content=form&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_source=dynamic&quot;},&quot;recaptcha&quot;:{&quot;enabled&quot;:false},&quot;return_visitor&quot;:{&quot;action&quot;:&quot;show&quot;,&quot;custom_content&quot;:&quot;&quot;},&quot;slide_in&quot;:{&quot;display_in&quot;:&quot;bottom_right&quot;,&quot;trigger&quot;:&quot;timer&quot;,&quot;scroll_percentage&quot;:null,&quot;timer&quot;:5,&quot;devices&quot;:&quot;all&quot;,&quot;show_once_every&quot;:15},&quot;sticky_bar&quot;:{&quot;display_in&quot;:&quot;top&quot;,&quot;trigger&quot;:&quot;timer&quot;,&quot;scroll_percentage&quot;:null,&quot;timer&quot;:5,&quot;devices&quot;:&quot;all&quot;,&quot;show_once_every&quot;:15}},&quot;version&quot;:&quot;5&quot;}\" method=\"POST\" id=\"inf_form_12c97c001a652ac813119a536e4fb4a4\"><input name=\"inf_form_xid\" type=\"hidden\" value=\"12c97c001a652ac813119a536e4fb4a4\" \/><input name=\"inf_form_name\" type=\"hidden\" value=\"Plugin Signup\" \/><input name=\"infusionsoft_version\" type=\"hidden\" value=\"1.68.0.144\" \/><input class=\"infusion-field-input-container\" id=\"inf_field_Email\" name=\"email_address\" type=\"email\" required placeholder=\"Your Email\" \/><input name=\"null\" type=\"hidden\" value=\"null\" \/><input style=\"display:none;\" class=\"infusion-field-input-container\" id=\"inf_custom_SiteSignupURL\" name=\"inf_custom_SiteSignupURL\" type=\"text\" value=\"http:\/\/www.nerdfitness.com\/blog\/feed\/\" \/><input style=\"display:none;\" class=\"infusion-field-input-container\" id=\"inf_custom_SignupPostID\" name=\"inf_custom_SignupPostID\" type=\"text\" value=\"3841278\" \/>\t<input name=\"inf_custom_CoachingOriginURL\" type=\"hidden\" value=\"\" \/><br \/>\n\t<input name=\"inf_custom_CoachingOriginLandingPage\" type=\"hidden\" value=\"\" \/><br \/>\n\t<input name=\"inf_custom_IPAddress\" type=\"hidden\" value=\"46.208.81.221\" \/><br \/>\n\t<input name=\"inf_custom_CookieLastMedium\" type=\"hidden\" value=\"\" \/><br \/>\n\t<input name=\"inf_custom_CookieLastCampaign\" type=\"hidden\" value=\"\" \/><br \/>\n\t<input name=\"inf_custom_CookieLastSource\" type=\"hidden\" value=\"\" \/><br \/>\n\t<input name=\"inf_custom_CookieLastTerm\" type=\"hidden\" value=\"\" \/><br \/>\n\t<input name=\"inf_custom_CookieLastContent\" type=\"hidden\" value=\"\" \/><br \/>\n\t<input name=\"inf_custom_CoachingOptinFormFilledDate\" type=\"hidden\" value=\"2022-11-23 19:50:43\" \/><br \/>\n\t<input name=\"inf_custom_infcustomcoachvariation\" type=\"hidden\" value=\"\" \/><br \/>\n\t<input name=\"inf_custom_FacebookBrowserId\" type=\"hidden\" value=\"\" \/><br \/>\n\t<input name=\"inf_custom_FacebookClickId\" type=\"hidden\" value=\"\" \/><\/p>\n<div class=\"infusion-submit\">\t<input class=\"opt-in-submit button infusion-recaptcha\" id=\"recaptcha_12c97c001a652ac813119a536e4fb4a4\" type=\"submit\" value=\" Get it now\" \/><\/div>\n<\/form>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"clearme\"><\/div>\n<p><b>Alright, now I want to hear from you!<\/b><\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Can you currently do a chin-up or pull-up?<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What\u2019s your favorite pull-up alternative?<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Am I missing any tips or tricks for pull-ups without a bar?<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Let me know in the comments!<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>-Steve<\/b><\/p>\n<p><b>PS: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you want more pull-up goodness, make sure you check out:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nerdfitness.com\/blog\/do-a-pull-up\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Get Your First Pull-Up (30-Day Progression Plan)<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nerdfitness.com\/blog\/how-to-do-a-proper-pull-up-and-why-you-need-to-do-them\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to Do a Proper Pull-up<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nerdfitness.com\/blog\/5-common-mistakes-when-doing-a-pull-up\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">5 Common Mistakes When Doing Pull-ups<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>###<\/p>\n<p>Photo source: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pickpik.com\/hang-out-plush-toys-kermit-the-pink-panther-toys-fun-3652\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Kermit and Pink Panther<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/photos\/mouse-toy-hanging-outside-nature-816855\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Mouse Hanging<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/126661502@N05\/27688581672\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Scarlet Spider-man<\/a><\/p>\n<p>The post <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nerdfitness.com\/blog\/pull-up-alternatives\/\">The 5 Best Pull-up Alternatives (How to Do Pull-ups Without a Bar)<\/a> first appeared on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nerdfitness.com\">Nerd Fitness<\/a>.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>So you want to do a pull-up but don\u2019t have a bar? Or maybe you just don\u2019t quite have the strength yet to hoist yourself up? Either way, no problem! We\u2019ve been teaching people how to do pull-up alternatives in our Online Coaching Program\u00a0with \u201cno-bar pull-ups.\u201d\u00a0Today, we\u2019ll show you all these tried and trusted workarounds. [\u2026]<br \/>\nThe post The 5 Best Pull-up Alternatives (How to Do Pull-ups Without a Bar) first appeared on Nerd Fitness.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":8569,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"wprm-recipe-roundup-name":"","wprm-recipe-roundup-description":""},"categories":[20,1,21,22,19],"tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"http:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8567"}],"collection":[{"href":"http:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"http:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=8567"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"http:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8567\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":8600,"href":"http:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8567\/revisions\/8600"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/8569"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"http:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=8567"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=8567"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/bestratefinders.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=8567"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}