Maximizing your workouts with high pulls: How to properly execute this dynamic exercise

Soniya
How to execute high-pull exercise effectively? (Image via Unsplash / Mariah krafft)
How to execute high-pull exercise effectively? (Image via Unsplash/Mariah krafft)

High pulls are an excellent exercise for developing strength, power and endurance in the upper body. The best part is that they're easy to do, as all you need is a barbell (or even just a heavy resistance band if you want to get fancy).

In fact, they're so simple that some people don't bother with proper form at all; they just heave up as much weight as possible instead of doing it right. If you're one of those who can't seem to find time for a workout or just doesn't know where to start with fitness goals, read on.

In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about performing high pulls correctly and maximizing the benefits by using proper technique.


What are high pulls?

Helps in developing explosive power and strength. (Image via Unsplash/Anastase Maragos)
Helps in developing explosive power and strength. (Image via Unsplash/Anastase Maragos)

High pulls are a pulling exercise, which means they use the muscles of the upper body to lift an implement. The high pull is a variation of the clean and jerk - a sport in which athletes compete by lifting weights above their heads.

It's used to develop power, explosiveness, strength and stamina in both the upper back muscles (rhomboids) and arms (biceps). As it involves many different muscle groups at once, compound movements like this one can be more effective than single-joint exercises like bicep curls or triceps extensions.


When should I perform high pulls?

High pulls are a great exercise for developing strength in the upper body. They can be used to develop strength in the shoulders, arms and back. They're also an excellent exercise for developing explosive power in the upper body.

They can be performed with dumbbells or kettlebells and require you to lift them from ground level up towards chin level using as much force as possible before lowering them down again under control.


What is the best way to execute a high pull exercise?

Can be performed using a barbell or a dumbbell. (Image via Unsplash / Kirill Bogomolov)
Can be performed using a barbell or a dumbbell. (Image via Unsplash / Kirill Bogomolov)

When executed properly, it can be a highly effective exercise for building strength and power in multiple muscle groups.

Here are some tips to keep in mind as you perform high pulls:

  • Start with a lower weight till you feel comfortable with the movement. High pulls require good form and control, so it's important not to overdo it.
  • Keep the back straight and chest up throughout the exercise. That will help prevent injury and ensure that you're using proper form.
  • Use the power of your legs to lift the barbell upward. That will help engage the large muscle groups in the legs, which will help you to lift more weight and perform the exercise more effectively.
  • Focus on pulling the barbell up towards your chin with the shoulders, rather than using the arms to lift the weight. That will help engage the upper back and shoulders, which are key muscle groups targeted by this exercise.
  • As you lower the weight back down to the hips, make sure to use your legs to control the movement. That will help prevent injury and ensure that you're executing the exercise with proper form.

Why is it important to focus on your form with this exercise?

Correct posture and form are crucial. (Image via Unsplash/Eduardo Cano Photo)
Correct posture and form are crucial. (Image via Unsplash/Eduardo Cano Photo)

When you're lifting weights, it's important to focus on your form. If you don't pay attention to how you move and what muscles are working, there's a good chance the exercise won't be as effective as it should be.

In case of high pulls, that's especially true, as they're explosive movements that require a lot of power from the legs and core. If done incorrectly, it may cause injury or pain in those areas.

By paying attention to proper form and technique during each rep (and making sure that every rep looks exactly like the last), you will get stronger faster without putting yourself at risk of injury.


High pulls are an excellent exercise for maximizing your workouts and building strength and power in multiple muscle groups. By following the aforementioned tips and focusing on proper form and control, you can execute this dynamic exercise safely and effectively to take your workouts to the next level.