Skip to main content

Ring One Arm Pull-Up

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Ring One Arm Pull-Up.

HardBicepsMiddle back

About this exercise

The Ring One Arm Pull-Up is one of the most demanding upper-body pulling exercises, requiring exceptional lat and biceps strength while the instability of the ring amplifies the challenge. Performed on a single ring, it develops unilateral pulling power and grip strength simultaneously.

How to Perform

  • Grab one gymnastic ring with one hand using a full grip, let the other arm hang at your side or hold it behind your back
  • Hang at full arm extension, engaging your core and keeping your body as still as possible
  • Initiate the pull by depressing and retracting the scapula of the working arm
  • Drive your elbow down and back to pull your chin above the ring
  • Keep the movement slow and controlled, avoiding swinging or using momentum
  • Lower yourself back to a dead hang under full control
  • Complete all reps on one side before switching

Muscle Activation

Primary
BicepsMiddle back
Secondary
CoreRear shouldersInner forearm

About the Ring One Arm Pull-Up

The Ring One Arm 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.