Seated Chin-up
Expert Advice
Keep your elbows close to your body and focus on pulling with your back muscles rather than just your arms.
How-to-do Steps
- Sit on the ground under a low bar or rings set to about chest height.
- Grab the bar with an underhand grip, hands shoulder-width apart.
- Lean back slightly, keeping your feet flat on the ground in front of you.
- Pull your chest towards the bar by bending your elbows and squeezing your shoulder blades together.
- Slowly extend your arms to lower yourself back to the starting position.
- Repeat for the desired number of reps.
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Muscles Worked
Seated Chin-up primarily targets the Shoulders, Lats, Traps, with Strength mechanics using Special Bar. Understanding muscle activation patterns helps you focus on proper engagement and maximize training effectiveness.
Primary



Shoulders30%

Lats30%

Traps20%
Secondary


Biceps10%

Forearms10%
Equipment
Special Bar

Exercise Type
Strength
Sets & Reps Guidance
Beginner2 x 10-12
Intermediate3 x 8-10
Advanced4 x 6-8
Frequently Asked Questions
What muscles does Seated Chin-up work?
Seated Chin-up primarily targets the Shoulders, Lats, Traps. Secondary muscles involved include Biceps, Forearms. It is classified as a Strength exercise performed with Special Bar.
How many sets and reps should I do for Seated Chin-up?
For beginners, start with 2 sets of 10-12. Intermediate lifters can do 3 sets of 8-10. Advanced athletes can push to 4 sets of 6-8. Adjust based on your goals and recovery capacity.
Is Seated Chin-up suitable for beginners?
Seated Chin-up is rated as an advanced exercise and is best suited for experienced lifters. Beginners should build foundational strength with simpler movements first before attempting this exercise.