Resistance Band Hammer-Grip Pull-Up

Beginner
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Assisted vertical pull using a resistance band and neutral grip that targets lats and biceps to build back and arm strength; progresses beginners toward unassisted pull-ups with joint-friendly activation.

About Exercise

Equipment

Pull-up Bar, Loop Bands

Difficulty

3/5 • Beginner

Primary Muscle Groups

Lats, Biceps

Secondary Muscles

Shoulders, Forearms, Abs

Accessory Muscles

Obliques

Popularity Score

7

Goals

Strength
Hypertrophy

Training Style

Calisthenics
Functional Training

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

No

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Medium

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Lats

9/10

Teres Major

Biceps

8/10

Long Head, Short Head, Brachialis

Traps

6/10

Upper Traps, Mid Traps

Shoulders

4/10

Rear Delts

Forearms

4/10

Flexors

Abs

3/10

Rectus Abdominis, Transverse Abdominis

Obliques

2/10

External Obliques

Programming

Typical Rep Range

5-12 reps

Rest Between Sets

90-120 seconds

How to Perform

Loop a resistance band over a pull-up bar to form a secure hanging loop. Step one foot or both knees into the band for assistance, then grip the bar with palms facing each other at shoulder width.

  1. Hang with arms fully extended and core braced, body straight.
  2. Pull shoulder blades down and back to initiate the pull.
  3. Drive elbows toward hips to lift body until chin clears bar.
  4. Squeeze back at the top for a brief pause.
  5. Lower slowly to full arm extension, resisting the band's pull.
  6. Maintain control without swinging throughout.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Pack shoulders down
  • Elbows to hips
  • Core tight, no swing
  • Full extension bottom
  • Squeeze at top
  • Neutral wrists

Breathing

Inhale as you lower, exhale forcefully as you pull up while bracing your core.

Tempo

4-0-1

Range of Motion

From dead hang with arms straight to chin above bar or chest near bar, keeping body aligned.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Select band strength to allow 8-12 controlled reps
  • Inspect band for wear before use
  • Avoid if acute shoulder or elbow pain present
  • Use box for safe entry/exit
  • Keep feet non-contacting bar
  • Stop if grip fails mid-set

Spotting

No spotter needed; band provides self-assist. Use a box for mounting if bar is high.

Common Mistakes

  • Kipping or swinging for momentum
  • Shrugging shoulders up
  • Incomplete range of motion
  • Flaring elbows out
  • Gripping too narrow or wide
  • Releasing core tension

When to Avoid

  • Acute shoulder impingement
  • Elbow tendonitis
  • Wrist instability
  • Recent back injury

Flexibility Needed

  • Shoulder flexion to 160 degrees
  • Full elbow extension
  • Adequate grip endurance

Build Up First

  • Basic hanging ability
  • Core bracing competency
  • Familiarity with assisted pulling motions

Also known as

Banded Neutral Grip Pull-Up, Assisted Hammer Pull-Up, Band-Assisted Neutral Pull-Up, Resistance Band Neutral Pull-Up

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