What are kipping pull-ups? Does it improve upper body strength?

Kipping pull ups (Photo by Anastase Maragos on Unsplash)
Kipping pull ups (Photo by Anastase Maragos on Unsplash)

Kipping pull-ups are a dynamic variation of the traditional pull-up exercise. Instead of relying solely on upper body strength, kipping pull-ups involve using a swinging motion of the hips and legs to generate momentum, allowing you to perform the movement more efficiently and complete more repetitions.

The motion involves a coordinated sequence of hip extension, hip flexion, and upper-body pulling. Kipping pull-ups are often used in CrossFit workouts and can be beneficial for increasing muscular endurance and cardiovascular capacity.

However, it's important to note that strict (non-kipping) pull-ups are generally considered a better option for developing pure upper-body strength.


What is the technique for Kipping pull-ups?

Kipping pull-ups (Image via Google)
Kipping pull-ups (Image via Google)

The kipping pull-ups technique is a dynamic movement used in exercises like pull-ups and muscle-ups. Here is a general description of the kipping technique for pull-ups:

  • Start in a dead hang position on the pull-up bar with your arms fully extended and a grip slightly wider than shoulder-width apart.
  • Initiate the movement by engaging your shoulders and creating a small swing by simultaneously pushing your hips forward and arching your back.
  • As you swing backward, use the momentum generated to pull your chin over the bar by quickly bending your elbows and pulling your chest towards the bar.
  • At the top of the movement, push away from the bar, extending your arms and allowing your body to swing back into the starting position.
  • Repeat the swinging motion, coordinating the hip drive and upper body pull to maintain a fluid motion and generate momentum for consecutive repetitions.

It's important to note that mastering the kipping technique requires practice and proper progression to avoid injury. Seek guidance from a qualified coach or trainer to ensure you are performing the technique correctly and safely.


Benefits of kipping pull-ups

Develop upper body strength (Photo by Roberto Shumski on Unsplash)
Develop upper body strength (Photo by Roberto Shumski on Unsplash)

The use of kipping in certain exercises, such as pull-ups or muscle-ups, can provide several benefits:

#1 Increased efficiency

Kipping allows you to generate momentum and use the larger muscle groups in your hips and legs to assist in completing the movement. This can make the exercise feel lighter and more efficient, allowing you to perform more repetitions within a given time frame.

#2 Muscular endurance

Kipping exercises can help improve muscular endurance as they require continuous effort over a higher number of repetitions. The dynamic nature of the movement challenges your muscles to sustain effort for a longer duration.

#3 Cardiovascular conditioning

The rhythmic and dynamic nature of kipping exercises can elevate your heart rate and provide a cardiovascular challenge, contributing to improved cardiovascular fitness and conditioning.

#4 Metabolic conditioning

The high-repetition nature of kipping exercises can stimulate your metabolic system, leading to increased calorie burn and improved metabolic conditioning.

#5 CrossFit training

Kipping is commonly used in CrossFit workouts, and mastering the technique allows you to perform efficiently during CrossFit competitions or workouts that involve a combination of exercises.


Can anyone do kipping bar pull-ups?

In theory, anyone can attempt kipping pull-ups, as long as they have the necessary strength, mobility, and coordination.

However, it's important to note that kipping pull-ups can be more challenging and potentially more demanding on the body than strict pull-ups. Therefore, it's recommended that individuals have a certain level of upper body strength and proficiency in strict pull-ups before attempting kipping pull-ups.

Moreover, it's crucial to prioritize safety and proper technique when performing kipping pull-ups. It is advisable to seek guidance from a qualified coach or trainer who can assess your readiness for kipping pull-ups, teach you the correct technique, and provide progressions to help you build the necessary strength and control.

If you have any pre-existing injuries or limitations, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before attempting kipping pull-ups or any new exercise. They can provide personalized guidance based on your specific needs and help you avoid potential risks.

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