Pull Up (Weighted): how to do it and muscles worked
The pull up (weighted) mainly works your lats and back, with help from your biceps. You need a pull-up bar.
Muscles worked
How to do the pull up (weighted)
- 1
Hang from a pull up bar with an overhand grip just wider than shoulders, with a dip belt or weighted vest attached. Start from straight arms with your shoulders engaged.
- 2
Pull until your chin clears the bar, driving your elbows down. Lower slowly until your arms are straight.
- 3
Breathe out as you pull and in as you lower, about three seconds down. Keep your body still and your core braced.
Form tip: Add weight only once you can do clean bodyweight pull ups, and never drop from the bar with the weight attached.
Common questions
- Which muscles does the pull up (weighted) work?
- The pull up (weighted) mainly works your lats and back. It also involves your biceps.
- What equipment do I need for the pull up (weighted)?
- You need a pull-up bar.
- How many sets and reps should I do?
- A common starting point is 2 to 4 sets of 8 to 12 controlled reps, with a weight that leaves a couple of reps in reserve. Adjust it to your goal and experience, and stop if something hurts.
- How do I track the pull up (weighted) in SweatByte?
- Add it to a routine or a workout. Log the weight and reps for each set. SweatByte shows your last session's numbers on every set, so you know what to beat.
More lats exercises
General information, not medical advice. Learn the movement with light weight first, and see a doctor or physiotherapist if you have an injury or pain. More guides in Learn.