Exercise technique

gorilla chin

The gorilla chin is a challenging bodyweight exercise that targets the abs while also engaging the forearms and biceps. It involves a pull-up motion with a strong core contraction to bring the chin above the bar.

How do you perform this exercise?

  1. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and your knees slightly bent.
  2. Grasp a pull-up bar with an overhand grip, slightly wider than shoulder-width apart.
  3. Hang from the bar with your arms fully extended and your palms facing away from you.
  4. Engage your core and pull your body up towards the bar, bringing your chin above the bar.
  5. Pause for a moment at the top, then slowly lower your body back down to the starting position.
  6. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

Which other muscles are involved?

Forearms, Biceps.

How do you log your sets?

How do you track progressive overload?

Source: ExerciseDB catalogue and demonstration. Related movements are options to compare, not equivalent loads or a prescribed progression.

Alternatives to explore

STARK is a strength training tracker for iPhone and Apple Watch. Log sets, repetitions and weights, then follow your progress. Core features are free. Explore STARK’s features