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Uneven Pull-Up

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Uneven Pull-Up.

HardMiddle back

About this exercise

An advanced pull-up variation where one hand grips the bar at a higher position than the other, creating an asymmetric load that places greater demand on the higher-side arm. Commonly used as a progression exercise toward the single-arm pull-up.

How to Perform

  • Grip a pull-up bar with one hand in a standard overhand grip
  • With the other hand, grip lower using a towel, rope, or the wrist of the working arm for assistance
  • Hang at full extension with both arms
  • Drive your elbows down to initiate the pull, focusing effort on the higher arm
  • Continue pulling until your chin clears the higher hand
  • Lower yourself slowly back to the dead-hang position under full control
  • Complete all reps on one setup before switching to the opposite arm configuration

Muscle Activation

Primary
Middle back
Secondary
BicepsCore

About the Uneven Pull-Up

The Uneven Pull-Up is a foundational movement that builds strength and muscle through controlled, progressive overload. Train it 1 to 2 times per week with 3 to 5 working sets per session, gradually adding weight or reps as form holds up.