Exercise technique

muscle-up (on vertical bar)

The muscle-up on a vertical bar is a challenging bodyweight exercise that combines a pull-up with a dip, requiring significant upper body strength, coordination, and technique. It primarily targets the lats, with secondary emphasis on the biceps, triceps, and forearms.

How do you perform this exercise?

  1. Start by hanging from a vertical bar with your palms facing away from you and your arms fully extended.
  2. Engage your core and pull your body up towards the bar, leading with your chest.
  3. As you pull yourself up, lean back slightly and bring your elbows towards your sides.
  4. Continue pulling until your chest reaches the bar and your elbows are fully bent.
  5. Pause for a moment at the top, then slowly lower yourself back down to the starting position.
  6. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

Which other muscles are involved?

Biceps, Triceps, Forearms.

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