Australian Pull-Up on Bench - How to Perform, Muscles, Variants | SatisFIT Skip to main content

Australian Pull-Up on Bench

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Australian Pull-Up on Bench.

MediumRear shouldersTrapezius

About this exercise

The Inverted Row on Bench is a bodyweight pulling exercise where the feet are elevated on a bench, increasing the difficulty compared to the standard floor version. Gripping a barbell set in a rack at waist height, you pull your chest up to the bar while keeping the body rigid, building back width, biceps, and rear-delt strength.

How to Perform

  • Set a barbell in a squat rack at approximately waist height
  • Position a bench behind you and place your heels on it
  • Grip the bar slightly wider than shoulder width with an overhand grip
  • Hang with arms fully extended and your body in a straight line from heels to shoulders
  • Pull your chest up to the bar by driving the elbows back and squeezing the shoulder blades together
  • Hold briefly at the top, then lower yourself in a controlled manner back to the start
  • Maintain a rigid plank position throughout — do not let the hips sag

Muscle Activation

Primary
Rear shouldersTrapeziusMiddle back
Secondary
BicepsOuter forearmMiddle chest

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes content is coming soon.

About the Australian Pull-Up on Bench

The Australian Pull-Up on Bench 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.