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Assisted Standing Pull-Up

A pull-up performed with the feet supported on a platform or band from a standing position, letting the legs offload just enough bodyweight to complete full-range overhand reps.

BackMachineVertical pull
GoLightWeight mediaassisted-standing-pull-up

Demonstration coming soon

Primary

Latissimus dorsi

Secondary

BicepsRear deltoidsRhomboidsCore

Equipment

Machine

Pattern

Vertical pull

Setup

  1. 01Set a box, platform, or band below the bar so the feet reach it at full hang.
  2. 02Take an overhand grip slightly wider than shoulder width.
  3. 03Place the feet on the support with knees soft.
  4. 04Set the shoulder blades down and brace before pulling.

Execution

  1. 01Pull the chest to the bar, pressing through the feet only as much as needed.
  2. 02Drive the elbows down and slightly back.
  3. 03Finish with the chin clearing the bar, then lower with control.
  4. 04Return to full arm extension with feet lightly touching the support.

Checkpoints

  • -Assistance from the legs is minimal and consistent rep to rep.
  • -Chest stays proud; shoulders do not roll forward at the top.
  • -Bar path keeps the body close, not swinging away.
  • -Every rep starts from straight arms.

Common mistakes

  • -Jumping into each rep instead of pulling.
  • -Increasing leg drive as fatigue builds without noticing.
  • -Partial range at the bottom.
  • -Grip too wide for the current strength level.

Programming notes

  • -Use 3 to 4 sets of 5 to 10 reps, tapering foot pressure over time.
  • -Once leg assistance is only needed at the sticking point, test full pull-ups.
  • -Good technique-volume tool on a second pulling day.

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