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Assisted Parallel Close Grip Pull-up

The assisted parallel close grip pull-up is a back exercise performed on a leverage machine that helps users perform pull-ups with added support, making it easier to complete the movement and focus on form.

Quick Facts

Body PartsBack
Target MusclesLats
Secondary MusclesBiceps and Forearms
EquipmentLeverage Machine
DifficultyBeginner
Exercise TypeStrength
BilateralYes

How to Do Assisted Parallel Close Grip Pull-up

Follow these step-by-step instructions to perform Assisted Parallel Close Grip Pull-up with proper form and technique.

  1. Adjust the machine to your desired weight and height.
  2. Place your hands on the parallel bars with a close grip, palms facing each other.
  3. Hang from the bars with your arms fully extended and your feet off the ground.
  4. Engage your back muscles and pull your body up towards the bars, keeping your elbows close to your body.
  5. Continue pulling until your chin is above the bars.
  6. Pause for a moment at the top, then slowly lower your body back down to the starting position.
  7. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

Muscles Worked

Understanding which muscles Assisted Parallel Close Grip Pull-up targets helps you integrate it effectively into your training program.

Target Muscles

These are the main muscles responsible for performing the movement and receive the greatest training stimulus.

Lats

Secondary Muscles

These muscles assist in the movement and receive secondary training benefits.

BicepsForearms

Benefits of Assisted Parallel Close Grip Pull-up

Incorporating Assisted Parallel Close Grip Pull-up into your workout routine offers numerous advantages for strength, muscle development, and overall fitness.

  • Lats Development: Assisted Parallel Close Grip Pull-up directly targets and strengthens the Lats, promoting muscle growth and improved functional strength.
  • Secondary Muscle Engagement: This exercise also works the Biceps and Forearms, providing additional training stimulus without extra exercises.
  • Safe and Controlled Movement: Machine exercises provide a fixed movement path, reducing the need for stabilization and allowing you to focus purely on the target muscles.
  • Functional Strength: Strength exercises like Assisted Parallel Close Grip Pull-up build real-world strength that transfers to daily activities and athletic performance.
  • Beginner-Friendly: This exercise is accessible to those new to fitness, with a movement pattern that's relatively easy to learn with proper instruction.

Safety Tips and Precautions

Performing Assisted Parallel Close Grip Pull-up safely is essential for preventing injuries and ensuring long-term progress.

  • Warm Up Properly: Before performing Assisted Parallel Close Grip Pull-up, complete 5-10 minutes of light cardio followed by dynamic stretches targeting the Lats and surrounding muscles.
  • Prioritize Form Over Weight: Never sacrifice proper technique for heavier weights. Poor form significantly increases injury risk and reduces the exercise's effectiveness.
  • Adjust to Your Body: Take time to properly adjust all seat heights and pad positions to fit your body before adding weight.
  • Protect Your Lower Back: Maintain a neutral spine throughout the movement. Never round your lower back under load.
  • Respect Your Range of Motion: Work within your current mobility limits. Gradually improve flexibility over time rather than forcing deeper positions.
  • Don't Hold Your Breath: Maintain consistent breathing throughout the exercise. Exhale during the exertion phase and inhale during the easier phase.
  • Know When to Stop: End your set when you can no longer maintain proper form. Training to absolute failure on every set increases injury risk.
  • Allow Adequate Recovery: The Lats typically need 48-72 hours to recover after intense training. Avoid training the same muscle group on consecutive days.

Tracking Your Progress

To make consistent gains with Assisted Parallel Close Grip Pull-up, track these metrics during your workouts:

Sets

Track the number of sets you complete. Most training programs recommend 3-5 sets per exercise.

Reps

Record your repetitions per set. Adjust rep ranges based on your goals: 1-5 for strength, 6-12 for hypertrophy, 12+ for endurance.

Weight

Log the weight used for progressive overload. Aim to gradually increase weight while maintaining proper form.

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