Seated Pullups

Explanatory Video

Description

Seated pullups are an excellent regression for standard pullups. Sit on the floor or a bench directly under a bar or rings. Grasp the bar with an overhand grip. Keeping your feet on the ground to assist the movement, pull your chest toward the bar by driving your elbows down and back. Focus on engaging your back muscles rather than just pulling with your arms. Control the descent back to the starting seated position.

The exercise is best performed with gymnastic rings

Difficulty & Category

Beginner
Dynamic

Affected Muscles

Latissimus Dorsi
Biceps Brachii
Trapezius (Lower)
Trapezius (Middle)
Rhomboid Major
Deltoid (Posterior)
Brachialis
Brachioradialis

Body Areas

Back
Arms
Shoulders
Forearms

Equipment

Pull-Up Bar
Low Bar
Rings
Last updated: 3/1/2026