
beginner pull-up specialization
v1by FitnessGrid
An 8-week evidence-based program to achieve the first unassisted pull-up using progressive overload and vertical mastery phases.
Get an AI coach that uses this skill
FitnessGrid is an AI coach that plans your week and adapts as you go. Install beginner pull-up specialization and your coach will follow this protocol every week, learn from what you actually do, and adjust on the fly.
- Your coach builds the week from this skill
- Adapts to your actual progress, not a static template
- Free to start — no credit card, ~60 seconds to set up
Procedure
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Initial Assessment: verify the user currently performs between 0 and 5 unassisted pull-ups. If they exceed 5, suggest a more advanced volume program instead.
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Phase 1 (Weeks 1-3): Foundation Building
- Create a 3-day per week schedule (e.g., Mon/Wed/Fri) using
create_week. - In each session, use
add_exerciseto include:- Inverted Bodyweight Rows: 3 sets of 8–12 reps.
- Dead Hangs: 3 sets for 20–40 seconds.
- Scapular Pull-ups: 3 sets of 10 reps.
- Progression Note: Use
create_noteto instruct the user to lower the bar height each week for rows and increase hang time by 5 seconds.
- Create a 3-day per week schedule (e.g., Mon/Wed/Fri) using
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Phase 2 (Weeks 4-6): Transition to Vertical
- Transition the primary focus to eccentric (lowering) movements.
- Update the 3-day schedule with:
- Negative Pull-ups: 4 sets of 3–5 reps (start at 5s descent, progress to 8s+).
- Elevated Feet Inverted Rows: 3 sets of 6–8 reps.
- Bent-Over Dumbbell Rows: 3 sets of 10 reps.
- Log coaching cues using
create_note: "Imagine trying to bend the bar" and "Pull ribcage to bar, not chin."
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Phase 3 (Weeks 7-8): Peak and Test
- Week 7 (Intensity):
- Negative Pull-ups: 3 sets of 2–3 reps (10-second max effort descents).
- Isometric Holds: 2 sets (chin above bar for max duration).
- Week 8 (Deload & Test):
- Days 1-3: Reduce total sets/volume by 50%. Use light rows and 10s hangs. Do not train to failure.
- Day 5: Test Day. Instruct the user to perform a warm-up and then attempt maximum unassisted pull-ups.
- Week 7 (Intensity):
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Recovery and Form Integration
- Use
rememberto store total sets performed and successful hold times to ensure progressive overload in subsequent weeks. - Provide form reminders for each workout session:
- Grip: External rotation to engage lats.
- Core: Maintain a "hollow body" position to prevent swinging.
- The Start: "Chest to the ceiling" to ensure scapular initiation.
- Use