Machine-assisted Pull-up

Machine-assisted Pull-up is a strength – assisted vertical pull exercise involving Latissimus dorsi. Use these steps to learn the movement and work with your coach to choose a suitable level.

Last updated: 2026-10-31 · DynPerformance

Primary muscles: Latissimus dorsi
Secondary muscles: Biceps brachii, Rhomboids and middle trapezius
Exercise type: Strength – assisted vertical pull

Exercise technique

Assistance setting
Check the assistance weight, remembering that more assistance makes the exercise easier.
Mount
Use the steps to place your knees or feet on the platform as specified by the machine's instructions.
Grip
Grasp the handles evenly and center yourself on the platform.
Pull
Drive your elbows down as you bring your chest toward the handles.
Top
Pause briefly at the highest point you can reach without craning your neck.
Lower
Lower slowly together with the assistance platform.
Dismount
Keep the platform under control and step onto a fixed step first.

Key technique points

Check how the machine applies assistance.
Keep your knees in the center of the platform.
Do not jump off the platform.
Use both arms together.
Straighten your elbows under control at the bottom.
Use the steps when mounting and dismounting.

Common mistakes

Misunderstanding the assistance

Do not assume reducing the assistance weight will make the exercise easier.

Kicking the platform

Do not push the knee pad down to create artificial assistance for the pull.

Lifting away from the support

Do not lift your knees as you rise and cause the platform to move suddenly.

Dismounting without control

Do not jump straight to the floor while the platform is raised.

Swinging the torso

Do not accelerate the repetition by bouncing through your lower back, even with assistance.

Crowding the shoulders

Do not shrug your shoulders toward your ears to reach the top.

Frequently asked questions