Workout Type:
Pull
Difficulty Level:
Advanced
Equipment needed:
Pull Up Bar

How To Do Commando Pull Ups

Commando Pull Ups are a challenging upper body exercise that targets the back, biceps, and shoulders. This exercise is performed on a pull-up bar and requires a strong grip and core stability. The movement involves pulling your body up while alternating your hand position, mimicking a commando-style movement.

Step-by-Step Guide to Properly Execute Commando Pull Ups

Starting Position

Begin by grasping a pull-up bar with an overhand grip, hands shoulder-width apart. Engage your core and hang with your arms fully extended, allowing your body to hang straight down. Ensure your shoulders are pulled back and down to maintain proper posture.

Pull Up Phase

Initiate the movement by pulling your body upward towards the bar. Focus on engaging your back muscles and biceps. As you pull up, shift your body slightly to one side, bringing your chin above the bar. This shift mimics the commando movement.

Lowering Phase

Slowly lower your body back to the starting position, maintaining control throughout the descent. Ensure that you do not drop down quickly, as this can lead to injury. Keep your core engaged to stabilize your body.

Alternate Sides

As you reach the top of the pull-up, alternate your body shift to the opposite side for the next repetition. This will help to evenly work both sides of your body and maintain balance in your strength development.

Tips for Proper Form

Throughout the exercise, keep your movements smooth and controlled. Avoid swinging or using momentum to pull yourself up. Focus on engaging your muscles and maintaining a steady breathing pattern. If you struggle with the full movement, consider using a resistance band for assistance.

Commando Pull Ups Workout Plan for All Levels

  • Beginner: 3 sets of 3-5 reps, rest 1-2 minutes between sets, 2-3 times per week.
  • Intermediate: 4 sets of 6-8 reps, rest 1-2 minutes between sets, 3 times per week.
  • Advanced: 5 sets of 10-12 reps, rest 1-2 minutes between sets, 4 times per week.

What Are The Benefits Of Commando Pull Ups

  • Builds upper body strength, particularly in the back, biceps, and shoulders.
  • Improves grip strength, which is essential for various other exercises.
  • Enhances core stability and strength due to the engagement required during the movement.
  • Develops coordination and balance through the alternating body shift.
  • Prepares the body for more advanced pulling movements like and variations.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Swinging your body: Keep movements controlled to avoid using momentum.
  • Not engaging the core: Ensure your core is tight to maintain stability.
  • Poor grip: Use a firm grip on the bar to maximize strength and control.
  • Neglecting to alternate sides: Ensure you shift your body to both sides for balanced strength development.

Follow these steps and tips to master Commando Pull Ups with proper form and efficiency.

FAQ About Commando Pull Ups

How many commando pull ups should I do per set?

5-8 reps per side, 3 sets. Alternate which hand is in front each set so both sides get equal work. If you can't do 5 clean reps, you're not ready yet. Get to 10 regular pull-ups first.

Why do commando pull ups feel harder than regular pull ups?

The staggered grip forces one arm to do more work than the other. Your front arm pulls harder through the bottom, and your back arm finishes the top. It's basically a step toward one-arm pull-up training without the full load.

What's the difference between commando pull ups and regular pull ups?

Body position. In commandos, you're sideways to the bar with a neutral grip. This shifts more load to the biceps and forearms compared to a standard overhand pull-up. I use them as a grip strength builder and one-arm pull-up progression.

Should I alternate sides during commando pull ups?

Functional and Versatile

By mimicking real-world climbing motions, commando pull-ups improve functional strength, benefiting athletes and those training for obstacle courses.

Yes. Switch which hand is in front every set, or every rep if you prefer. If you always lead with the same hand, you'll build an imbalance. Most people have a stronger side already, so equal work on both is the goal.

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Learn More About Commando Pull Ups

Balanced Arm Strength Development

Commando pull-ups require each arm to work independently, helping to build balanced strength between the biceps and forearms.

Increased Grip Challenge

The staggered hand position forces a stronger grip, improving forearm endurance and overall grip strength for other pulling exercises.

Engages Multiple Muscle Groups

This variation works the biceps, lats, shoulders, and core, making it a full upper-body movement that enhances overall strength.

Functional and Versatile

By mimicking real-world climbing motions, commando pull-ups improve functional strength, benefiting athletes and those training for obstacle courses.