Commando Pull-up

Commando Pull-up demonstration gif

Instructions:

  • 1Stand facing the bar and hold it with both hands in a shoulder-width grip.
  • 2Pull your body up to one side of the bar, twisting your torso slightly as you do so.
  • 3Lower your body back down in a controlled manner.
  • 4Repeat the process for the other side.
  • 5Continue alternating between left and right pull-ups.

Tips:

  • Keep your core engaged throughout the exercise to improve stability and protect your lower back.
  • Focus on slow, controlled movements rather than speed to increase the effectiveness of the exercise.
  • Try to keep your feet together and your body straight from head to toe.
  • Make sure to breathe: inhale as you pull up and exhale on the way down.

Commando Pull-Up: A Comprehensive Guide

The Commando Pull-Up is an advanced bodyweight exercise that enhances strength and stability, primarily targeting the back and waist muscles. This dynamic movement is excellent for building functional fitness and improving overall upper body strength.

When performing this exercise, you primarily engage key muscles, including the Infraspinatus, Latissimus Dorsi, Obliques, Teres Major, Teres Minor, as well as the lower and middle fibers of the Trapezius. The unique nature of the Commando Pull-Up makes it a fantastic addition to any workout routine focused on upper body development.

How to Perform a Commando Pull-Up

  1. Start by hanging from a pull-up bar with your palms facing away from you, hands shoulder-width apart.
  2. Initiate the movement by pulling your body upward while engaging your core.
  3. As you ascend, twist your torso to one side, bringing your chin above the bar.
  4. Lower yourself back down to the starting position, then repeat the movement, alternating sides.

Benefits of Commando Pull-Ups

  • Strength Development: Builds upper body strength effectively through a multi-muscle engagement.
  • Core Stability: Improves core stability as you engage your obliques throughout the movement.
  • Versatility: Can be performed anywhere you have access to a pull-up bar.
  • Progression: An excellent progression from standard pull-ups for those looking to increase the intensity of their workouts.

Tips for Optimal Performance

  • Maintain a controlled pace to maximize muscle engagement without sacrificing form.
  • Use a full range of motion, ensuring you fully extend your arms at the bottom of each pull-up.
  • If you're new to this exercise, consider practicing standard pull-ups or utilizing resistance bands for support.
  • Ensure to engage your core to maintain body alignment as you perform the movement.

For those exploring Commando Pull-Up alternatives, consider muscle-ups or standard pull-ups to target similar muscle groups effectively while providing a foundation for more advanced variations.

Whether you're a fitness beginner or an experienced athlete, incorporating Commando Pull-Ups into your training regimen can provide substantial benefits, enhancing both strength and endurance.

Commando Pull-up Muscles Worked

Arms

Back

Core

Legs