For Perfecting The Pull-up

Nail this challenging exercise within the Pilates environment with the Barnett Pull-Ups Program.

- Larkin Barnett

I’VE GOT A REAL PASSION FOR PULL-UPS.

Doesn’t it seem like they’re a movement that someone who’s in shape should be able to do? But they’re hard—I mean really hard. When you finally pull your forehead over the bar with your whole body engaged, it’s both empowering and fun. Not to mention it could potentially help save your life someday.

The original Pilates method includes an exercise called the Pull Up, but it’s performed hanging horizontally from the Cadillac bars with the lower body partially supported. Fifteen years ago I wondered, How can vertical pullups be added to the existing Pilates repertoire? That’s when I got the idea to use the Wunda Chair, in conjunction with a pull-up bar, like the Gravitron machine at the gym. I’ve found that the springs provide the necessary assistance to help conquer the vertical pull-up.

When the goal is tangible, yet challenging, you push yourself in new ways. My proprietary Barnett Pull-Ups Program highlighted here is integral to my Athletickinetics System, which trains the body in a well-rounded, Pilates-evolved 3D system.

Once you master my pull-up variations, you’ll get better at push-ups, planks and side planks. Your whole body has to be engaged, so an added benefit is stronger biceps, lats, shoulders, glutes and core. If you do any type of cardio, you’ll also notice increased stamina because of your newfound internal muscular strength. Another pro: a postural lift.

This tangible functional strength you’ll gain from learning to execute the pull-up is a metaphor for feeling like you can power your way through any part of life. If you can get your forehead over the bar, you can set higher and higher life goals—and reach them!