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Self-Assisted Neutral Grip Chin-Up

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Self-Assisted Neutral Grip Chin-Up.

EasyMiddle back

About this exercise

A modified chin-up using a neutral (hammer) grip where you use your legs — typically by placing one or both feet on a box or nearby surface — to provide just enough assistance to complete the pulling movement. It bridges the gap between assisted machine pull-ups and full bodyweight chin-ups.

How to Perform

  • Grip a neutral-grip pull-up bar or parallel handles with palms facing each other and hang
  • Place one foot (or both feet, lightly) on a box or step behind you to provide partial leg assistance
  • Initiate the pull by retracting your shoulder blades, then drive your elbows down and back
  • Pull until your chin clears the bar, using only as much leg push as needed to complete the rep
  • Lower yourself in a controlled manner, letting your arms reach full extension at the bottom
  • Gradually reduce the amount of leg assistance over time as you build strength

Muscle Activation

Primary
Middle back
Secondary
BicepsCore

About the Self-Assisted Neutral Grip Chin-Up

The Self-Assisted Neutral Grip Chin-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.