3 Drills for Kipping Chest-to-Bar Pull-Ups
Written by Nichole Kribs
I have worked with several people who have great kipping pull-ups but struggle to get their chest to the bar for kipping chest-to-bar pull-ups. Does that sound like something you’ve struggled with? If so, then read on for my top three drills to help you achieve kipping chest-to-bar pull-ups.
Drill #1: Banded Push-Away Drill
Place a band at the top of the pull-up bar. Use assistance to place one leg into the band and pull yourself up so your chest touches the bar. Hold this position for 3 seconds then push-away from the pull-up bar. I find it helpful to imagine the pull-up bar being a barbell and you are bench pressing the pull-up bar away from your chest.
You can also use a box to step onto and assist you to get your chest to the pull-up bar.
How do I incorporate this into my regular training schedule?
Add this into your training session twice a week as a warm-up drill.
Two to Three sets of:
Banded Push-Away Drill x 4-6 reps
Rest as needed
Drill #2: Strict Pronated-Grip Chest-to-Bar Pull-Ups
I can’t emphasize the importance of developing strength to complete strict chest-to-bar pull-ups. If you don’t have strict yet, then I’d recommend using a band to help you get your chest to the bar or use a partner who can assist in spotting you. Below is a video on how to safely spot a training partner.
How do I incorporate this into my regular training schedule?
Add this drill into your accessory session either at the beginning or end of your training day, two times per week.
Three sets of:
Strict Pronated-Grip Chest-to-Bar Pull-Ups x 5 reps (use assistance if needed)
Rest 60 seconds
Drill #3: Bat Wings
This is an absolutely fantastic drill to incorporate into your training. This drill essentially puts you in the same position that you will be in when your chest touches the bar at the top of your kipping pull-up. Development of the upper back, along with helping reverse protracted shoulders, is a crucial piece to getting efficient kipping pull-ups while keeping your shoulders safe. When doing Bat Wings, make sure to pull the kettlebells high while squeezing the shoulder blades together so you can isolate those rhomboids.
How do I incorporate this into my regular training schedule?
Add this as a finisher in your training two-three times per week as follows.
Three sets of:
Bat Wings x 5 reps @ 1515
Rest as needed
Hopefully these drills will help you achieve kipping chest-to-bar pull-ups or improve your efficiency with them.
Also Check Out…
The Only Three Reasons You Still Can’t Do A Pull-Up
What’s The Difference Between Kipping And Butterfly Pull-Ups