Why Don’t Do Strongman Do Pull Ups?

Strongman competitions are known for their incredible displays of strength and power. Athletes compete in events such as the deadlift, squat, and log press, showcasing their immense physical capabilities. However, one exercise that is notably absent from the strongman repertoire is the pull-up.

We will explore the reasons why strongman athletes do not typically perform pull-ups, the risks and benefits of incorporating pull-ups into their training, and alternative exercises that can improve pull-up performance.

Why Don’t Do Strongman Do Pull Ups?

One reason why strongman athletes do not typically perform pull-ups is due to the physiological differences between pull-ups and strongman events. Strongman events require maximal power output and shorter durations, while pull-ups require muscular endurance and longer durations. As a result, strongman athletes tend to prioritize training that mimics event-specific demands. This means that exercises such as the deadlift, squat, and log press, which require maximal power output for short durations, are prioritized over exercises such as pull-ups, which require muscular endurance and longer durations.

While pull-ups may not be a staple exercise in strongman training, incorporating them can have benefits for overall upper body strength and endurance. Pull-ups can improve grip strength, back strength, and overall upper body muscular endurance. However, incorporating pull-ups into training may also increase injury risk if not properly trained for. This is because pull-ups require a significant amount of shoulder stability and mobility, which can be compromised if not trained for properly. Additionally, incorporating pull-ups into training may require adjustments to event-specific training, which could potentially impact performance in those events.

For strongman athletes looking to improve their pull-up performance, there are alternative exercises that can be incorporated into their training. Accessory exercises such as lat pull-downs, inverted rows, and bicep curls can improve pull-up strength by targeting the same muscle groups used in pull-ups. Grip training exercises such as farmer’s walks and dead hangs can improve grip strength necessary for pull-ups. Incorporating bodyweight exercises such as push-ups and dips can also improve overall upper body strength and endurance necessary for pull-ups.

Final Thoughts

While pull-ups may not be a common exercise in strongman training, they can still have benefits for overall upper body strength and endurance. However, incorporating pull-ups into training may also increase injury risk if not properly trained for. For strongman athletes looking to improve their pull-up performance, alternative exercises such as lat pull-downs, inverted rows, and grip training exercises can be incorporated into their training. Ultimately, the decision to incorporate pull-ups into strongman training should be made based on individual athlete goals and training needs.