Active Hang
Explanatory Video
Description
The Active Hang is an isometric exercise performed on a pull-up bar. Begin by gripping the bar with your hands shoulder-width apart. Engage your core and slightly retract your shoulder blades, keeping your arms straight. Your body should hang with tension, ensuring your scapulae are actively engaged and not relaxed.
Maintain this position for the desired amount of time, keeping your legs together and slightly in front for balance. Focus on breathing evenly, and avoid swinging or excessive movement. This exercise helps to strengthen your back, shoulders, and arm muscles, serving as a foundation for more advanced pull exercises like pull-ups.
Difficulty & Category
Beginner
Isometric
Affected Muscles
Latissimus Dorsi
Trapezius (Middle)
Trapezius (Lower)
Rhomboid Major
Rhomboid Minor
Deltoid (Posterior)
Biceps Brachii
Brachialis
muscles.forearms
Body Areas
Back
Shoulders
Arms
Forearms
Equipment
Pull-Up Bar
Similar Exercises
Reach up and grab a pull-up bar with an overhand grip (palms facing away). Hang with your arms fully extended and your feet off the ground. Relax your shoulders and body, letting gravity stretch your spine and shoulders. Maintain a firm grip and keep your core slightly engaged to prevent excessive swinging and keep your shoulders away from your ears.
Isometric
Beginner
Regressions
Reach up and grab a pull-up bar with an overhand grip (palms facing away). Hang with your arms fully extended and your feet off the ground. Relax your shoulders and body, letting gravity stretch your spine and shoulders. Maintain a firm grip and keep your core slightly engaged to prevent excessive swinging and keep your shoulders away from your ears.
Isometric
Beginner
Last updated: 3/6/2026