push up all of the upper body muscles are worked. The pull up works the muscles
of the back, rear deltoid (shoulder), biceps, forearms and core. The pull up is
one of the most difficult exercises to perform. There is a method however, to
be able to conquer this exercise and get in a great workout for the above
mentioned muscle groups. By starting out with modified pull ups, you can work
your way up to a full unassisted pull up. Many gyms have assisted pull up
machines with a weight stack that allows your to offset some of your own body
weight. Chose a weight that allows you to perform 8-10 reps. As you continue
to grow more efficient at the exercise, reduce the weight you have on the stack
and eventually you will be able to lift your own bodyweight. If you are not
fortunate enough top have one of the pull up machines, set a chair under a chin
up bar. Put your feet on the chair and use your legs to help lift your body up.
As you get stronger, use just one leg for assistance. Eventually reduce the
amount of effort using your legs and rely on just upper body strength.
Eventually you will be able to perform a pull up unassisted. You can also focus
on doing exercises like rows, lat pull downs, biceps curls and bent over rear
deltoid raises to strengthen the muscles used for the pull up. Patience and
persistence will be rewarded. Try this challenge and let me know how you make
out!