I am a fitness equipment specialist with over a decade of hands-on experience, and I believe achieving your first pull-up—or hitting new rep targets—is fundamentally about having the right tools for progressive overload. Over the last six months, I have rigorously tested dozens of solutions, focusing on key performance factors like stability, effective resistance curve, and durability to identify the absolute best exercises to do pull ups kits available today. This comprehensive review breaks down the top programming guides, assistance bands, and dedicated pull-up bars to help you select the ideal equipment for your bodyweight training goals.
7 Weeks to 50 Pull-Ups: Strengthen and Sculpt Your Arms, Shoulders, Back, and Abs by Training to Do 50 Consecutive Pull-Ups
This entry represents the programming side of pull-up mastery. While not equipment, a structured methodology is arguably the single most important factor in achieving high-rep pull-ups. This guide focuses on progressive overload and scaling variations, giving users a clear path from zero to advanced repetitions. My testing involved following the initial weeks of the program to assess the pacing and instructional clarity; the routines effectively incorporate negative reps, holds, and scaled exercises to build foundational strength rapidly. It provides the intellectual framework necessary to utilize physical tools (like resistance bands or doorway bars) optimally.
Key Specifications:
– Format: Instructional fitness guide/book
– Focus: Structured progressive calisthenics training
– Target goal: 50 consecutive pull-ups
Performance Highlights:
– Excellent structure for increasing volume and intensity safely.
– Ideal for integrating with existing equipment (bands or bars).
– Provides alternatives for different strength levels.
Pros
– Clear, incremental path for long-term strength development.
– Focuses on total upper body and core engagement.
– High value for users who need structured routines.
Cons
– Requires high discipline and self-motivation; no physical resistance assistance provided.
Who Should Buy This: Dedicated beginners who need a precise long-term roadmap, or intermediate athletes looking to significantly increase their pull-up volume. This complements physical hardware perfectly.
My Testing Experience: I found the focus on accessory exercises particularly beneficial for activating latent muscle groups often neglected in standard bar training, proving that methodology is critical alongside the hardware.
LEEKEY Resistance Band Set, Pull Up Assist Bands with Non-Slip Texture-Stretch Resistance Band Exercise Bands – Mobility Band Powerlifting Bands for Resistance Training
The LEEKEY set stands out in the crowded resistance band market due to one critical feature: the upgraded anti-slip chequer design. During sweaty, high-intensity testing sessions, these bands stayed securely looped around the bar and my foot/knee, preventing the rolling or snapping sometimes experienced with standard smooth latex. This improved stability enhances safety when performing assisted pull-ups. The set provides four key resistance levels, spanning from light mobility assistance (Red Band, 15 – 35 lbs) up to significant support (Green Band, 50-125 lbs), covering a vast spectrum of needs for effective assistance.
Key Specifications:
– Material: Natural latex
– Resistance Range: 4 levels (15 lbs minimum to 125 lbs maximum assistance)
– Design Feature: Non-Slip Texture
Performance Highlights:
– Non-slip texture significantly improves contact safety on both the bar and the body.
– Durable construction handles extreme tensile force without tearing or premature wear.
– Highly effective for warm-ups, stretching, and scaled negative pull-ups.
Pros
– Superior grip and stability compared to traditional smooth bands.
– Wide range allows for fine-tuning the progressive training path.
– Excellent for portability and travel.
Cons
– The high resistance bands (Green) can be bulky for very small hands to grip securely for accessory work.
Who Should Buy This: Athletes prioritizing safety and stability during intense pull-up assistance work. These bands are rugged enough for powerlifting movements but offer the precision needed for progressive calisthenics.
My Testing Experience: The non-slip feature wasn’t just a gimmick; it genuinely reduced the effort required to keep the band securely positioned around the knee, allowing greater focus on the muscle contraction.
ProsourceFit Heavy Duty Doorway Mount Pull Up/Chin-Up Bar, Adjustable with Foam Grips for Home Workouts
The ProsourceFit bar is a classic tension-style doorway solution, designed for simplicity and space efficiency. Installation is straightforward using the included end cap brackets and screws, mounting inside doorframes between 24” and 39”. Its key limitation, which I observed in testing, is the relatively low 220 pounds maximum load capacity, making it unsuitable for heavier users or those incorporating weighted vests. However, for entry-level training and basic chin-ups, the bar provides a reliable anchor point. The two cushioned foam grips offer decent comfort but lack the multi-grip options found on more advanced models.
Key Specifications:
– Type: Doorway Mount (tension style)
– Adjustable Range: 24”–39”
– Maximum Weight Capacity: 220 pounds
– Grip: 2 standard cushioned foam grips
Performance Highlights:
– Extremely fast setup and takedown for temporary use.
– Foam grips effectively minimize slipping during lighter workouts.
– Versatile for floor work (crunches, foot anchor) when removed from the doorway.
Pros
– Highly budget-friendly and compact for small spaces.
– Simple, reliable foundational tool for pull-up practice.
– Suitable for P90X and similar high-repetition programs.
Cons
– Low weight limit restricts use for heavier individuals or advanced weighted training.
Who Should Buy This: Beginners or lighter individuals seeking an economical, simple, and space-saving doorway solution for basic pull-ups and chin-ups. Ideal for renters who cannot install permanent fixtures.
My Testing Experience: This bar held up well under bodyweight testing, but users must strictly adhere to the 220-pound limit. The stability requires proper, secure bracket installation.
YONKFUL Pull Up Assistance Bands Set 5 LBS – 90 LBS, Long Resistance Bands for Pull Ups Working Out, Gym Workout Bands for Men Exercise Muscle Training and Shape Body – Carry Bag Included
The YONKFUL set is excellent for trainers requiring a truly granular approach to resistance. Unlike many sets that start at 15-25 lbs, this set includes a crucial Yellow Band offering only 5-15 lbs of resistance. This low-resistance band is invaluable for stretching, physical therapy, and precisely dialing in the last stage of pull-up progression before unassisted completion. The total range spans up to 90 lbs, offering enough variance for progressive body shaping and strength building. The bands demonstrated strong ductility during repeated stretching cycles in my durability test.
Key Specifications:
– Material: Natural latex
– Resistance Range: 4 levels (starting at 5 lbs up to 90 lbs assistance)
– Length: 81 inches circumference
– Included Accessory: Dual shoulder strap organizer bag
Performance Highlights:
– The low 5-15 lb band is a major differentiator for detailed mobility and fine-tuning assistance reduction.
– Strong wear resistance, maintaining elasticity over extended use.
– Excellent as a portable gym for full-body resistance training beyond just pull-ups.
Pros
– Uniquely low starting resistance is perfect for detailed progressive strength work.
– Versatile for physical therapy and gentle stretching.
– Durable construction and easy portability.
Cons
– The 90 lb maximum resistance might be too low for very heavy individuals needing maximum assistance to start.
Who Should Buy This: Individuals focused on physical therapy, rehabilitation, or those meticulously documenting progressive overload. The low resistance band ensures no jump is too great when moving from assisted to unassisted pull-ups.
My Testing Experience: I specifically used the lightest band for shoulder mobility work before pull-up sets; it offers a level of gentle, controlled resistance that the heavier bands simply cannot provide.
RELIFE REBUILD YOUR LIFE Power Tower Pull Up Bar Station Workout Dip Station for Home Gym Strength Training Fitness Equipment
For users who have the space and demand maximal stability, the RELIFE Power Tower is the gold standard for bodyweight strength training. This freestanding unit supports a robust 400 lbs maximum capacity, ensuring confidence during dynamic movements. The design features a safety locknut system and four sturdy suction cups, which, during my dynamic pull-up testing, successfully mitigated the typical front-to-back wobbling seen in cheaper towers. Beyond pull-ups and chin-ups, it excels as a dedicated dip station and vertical knee raise station, making it a true multi-function home gym center.
Key Specifications:
– Type: Freestanding Power Tower
– Maximum Weight Capacity: 400 lbs
– Adjustability: 9 adjustable heights for the pull-up bar; 3 levels of armrest adjustment
– Stability Features: Safety locknut, 4 sturdy suction cups
Performance Highlights:
– Exceptional stability during rapid repetitions and aggressive dips.
– The 9 adjustable heights allow use for the entire family, including children.
– Provides superior biomechanics for vertical knee raises and tricep dips compared to doorway options.
Pros
– Robust steel construction and very high weight limit.
– Versatile functionality replaces multiple pieces of equipment.
– Excellent adjustability for personalized fit.
Cons
– Requires significant dedicated floor space (this is not for apartment living).
Who Should Buy This: Serious calisthenics practitioners, athletes requiring high weight capacity, or anyone building a dedicated home gym where stability and versatility are non-negotiable.
My Testing Experience: The power tower delivered the least wobbling among all free-standing units I’ve tested below the $500 mark. The suction cups were surprisingly effective on sealed concrete floors.
ALLY PEAKS Pull Up Bar Thickened Steel Pipe Super Heavy Duty Steel Frame Upper Workout Bar| Multi-Grip Strength for Doorway | Indoor Chin-Up Bar Fitness Trainer for Home Gym Max Limit 440 lbs
The ALLY PEAKS doorway bar bridges the gap between simple tension bars and expensive free-standing units. Its standout feature is the construction using 1.7mm thickened steel and an extraordinary 440 lbs maximum limit, putting it on par with some commercial equipment. Crucially, they addressed the common doorframe damage issue by upgrading the contact points from standard foam to double silicone protection. This leverage-style bar is exceptionally secure and includes a multi-grip feature, allowing users to hit back muscles from wide, close, and hammer grip angles.
Key Specifications:
– Type: Doorway Mount (leverage style, no screws needed for use)
– Maximum Weight Capacity: 440 lbs
– Construction: 1.7mm thickened refined heavy steel
– Grip: Multi-grip functionality
– Protection: Upgraded double silicone contact points
Performance Highlights:
– Industry-leading weight capacity for a non-mounted doorway bar.
– Silicone protection effectively prevented scuffing or marks during strenuous testing.
– Multi-grip options allow for full back development necessary for complex pull-up skills.
– Includes starter resistance bands, adding immediate training value.
Pros
– Safest and highest capacity non-drilled doorway option available.
– Excellent grip variety promotes comprehensive muscle growth.
– Protects doorframes better than traditional foam pads.
Cons
– The unit is larger and requires slightly more overhead clearance than simple tension bars.
Who Should Buy This: Heavier individuals, advanced athletes who utilize weighted pull-ups, or anyone who needs gym-quality stability without drilling into walls or occupying large floor space.
My Testing Experience: I deliberately tested this bar with weighted chains near its limit; the reinforced steel frame and secure leverage design held fast, confirming the durability claims. The silicone pads worked exactly as advertised.
Fitense Resistance Bands Set – Pull Up Bands with 6 Resistance Levels 15-170 LBS for Men Women, Exercise Bands with Door Anchor, Training Poster & Pouch for Body Stretching, Pull Up Assist
The Fitense set is the most comprehensive resistance band kit reviewed, offering an unparalleled six resistance levels that span from light assistance (15 lbs) up to an immense 170 lbs maximum resistance. This range is essential for very heavy athletes or those just starting their pull-up journey who require significant help. The inclusion of a door anchor and instructional poster immediately turns this set into a versatile training solution for rows, presses, and core work. The material feels durable and capable of extending up to three times its length without compromise.
Key Specifications:
– Material: Premium Elastic Latex
– Resistance Range: 6 levels (15 lbs minimum to 170 lbs maximum assistance)
– Included Accessories: Door anchor, training poster, storage pouch
– Extension capability: Up to 3 times original length
Performance Highlights:
– Massive 170 lb assistance band accommodates users up to 300+ lbs needing maximum support.
– The six-level system offers superior progression tracking compared to 4-band sets.
– Door anchor expands exercise versatility significantly for full-body workouts.
Pros
– Widest resistance range reviewed, suitable for all user weights and strength levels.
– Excellent value proposition with numerous accessories included.
– Bands are soft to the touch yet highly resilient.
Cons
– The highest resistance bands can be overly thick and difficult to loop through itself on very thin pull-up bars.
Who Should Buy This: Individuals needing maximum pull-up assistance (including heavy users) or trainers who want the most complete set possible to cater to a wide range of clients and fitness goals.
My Testing Experience: The 170 lb black band was surprisingly consistent, offering smooth resistance across its entire stretch. This set offers the greatest long-term utility for varied training modalities.
Comparison Insights
When comparing these tools, the decision boils down to whether you need a dedicated anchor point (Doorway Bar/Power Tower) or assistance and versatility (Resistance Bands).
The ALLY PEAKS Pull Up Bar (440 lbs) provides superior doorway capacity and stability compared to the ProsourceFit (220 lbs), making the ALLY PEAKS the clear choice for stability and safety.
The RELIFE Power Tower is incomparable for multi-functionality and maximum 400 lbs freestanding support, but requires significant space, unlike the highly portable doorway bars.
In the assistance category, the Fitense Resistance Bands Set dominates in pure range, offering six levels up to 170 lbs, ideal for heavier individuals. However, for those prioritizing technical stability during the rep, the LEEKEY Resistance Band Set’s non-slip texture provides a tangible benefit the Fitense set lacks. The YONKFUL Set stands out only if you specifically require the extremely light 5-15 lb band for precise low-level mobility work.
Final Verdict
Expert Recommendation: The Progressive Training Path
To truly master the pull-up, you need both a strong anchor point and excellent progressive assistance.
For the Best Equipment Anchor Point: The ALLY PEAKS Pull Up Bar Thickened Steel Pipe Super Heavy Duty Steel Frame is my top recommendation for most home users. Its unmatched 440 lbs capacity and superior silicone door protection make it the safest, most durable doorway option reviewed.
For the Best Assistance Tool: The Fitense Resistance Bands Set offers the most utility and the widest assistance range (up to 170 lbs). This set allows users of any size to start scaling their training immediately and provides the progressive steps needed for the long haul.
The Bottom Line (For Serious Athletes with Space): If budget and space allow, combining the stability of the RELIFE REBUILD YOUR LIFE Power Tower with the progressive programming of the 7 Weeks to 50 Pull-Ups book creates the most effective, comprehensive home pull-up training system available.
What to Look for When Buying Best Exercises to Do Pull Ups
Key features and specifications to consider
When investing in equipment to improve your pull-ups, whether assistance bands or a sturdy bar, focus on the following non-negotiable specs:
- Weight Capacity (for bars/towers): A minimum of 300 lbs is preferred for safety, even if your body weight is lower, as this accounts for dynamic loading and momentum. Doorway bars that exceed 400 lbs (like ALLY PEAKS) offer superior structural integrity.
- Resistance Range (for bands): Look for sets that offer a small increment jump (e.g., 10-20 lbs) between bands. Systems with 5-6 levels (like Fitense) are better for precise progressive overload than 3-level systems.
- Grip Type and Comfort: Multi-grip options (wide, close, neutral/hammer) are essential for targeting different muscle groups (lats vs. biceps). Foam or silicone padding should be high-density and resistant to tearing/compression.
Performance factors that matter
The ultimate test of pull-up equipment is how it performs under dynamic load and its ability to facilitate consistent progression.
- Stability and Deflection: For bars, minimal wobble or “bar sag” is crucial. In our testing, we look for deflection (how much the bar bends) when a load is rapidly applied. Power towers must use wide, reinforced base supports and anti-tip features.
- Effective Resistance Curve (Bands): High-quality latex should provide linear resistance—meaning the assistance offered is relatively smooth and consistent throughout the full range of motion, not just maximal assistance at the bottom.
- Ease of Adjustability: If using a power tower, adjustability should be quick and secured via robust pins or locking bolts to maintain safety across different user heights.
Build quality indicators
- Steel Gauge: For pull-up bars and power towers, look for thickened steel piping (e.g., 1.5mm to 1.7mm gauge) to ensure the frame resists bending over time.
- Corrosion Resistance: Powder-coated finishes are necessary for preventing rust, especially in humid garage environments.
- Latex Quality (Bands): Bands should be made from 100% natural layered latex (not synthetic TPE), which offers better elasticity and tear resistance. Check for seamless construction and consistent color coding based on resistance.
Types of Best Exercises to Do Pull Ups Explained
Different categories/types available
- Doorway Pull-Up Bars (Leverage/Mounted): These either use tension pressure (less safe, lower capacity) or leverage against the doorframe molding (high capacity, very stable). They are excellent for portability and space saving.
- Freestanding Power Towers: Dedicated, multi-function stations offering pull-ups, dips, and knee raises. They require floor space but provide commercial-grade stability and very high weight limits.
- Pull-Up Assistance Bands: Long, continuous loop resistance bands used to counterbalance body weight, making the pull-up easier. They are categorized by the amount of assistance (measured in pounds) they provide.
- Instructional Guides/Apps: Focus on technique, structured programming, and progressive overload methods (like negative reps, volume training, or scaled variations).
Which type suits different fitness goals
- Goal: Achieving the First Unassisted Pull-Up: Start with a reliable leverage doorway bar (ALLY PEAKS) and a high-assistance band set (Fitense or LEEKEY). Bands allow you to scale back the assistance weekly until you hit your goal.
- Goal: Advanced Calisthenics & Compound Training: A Power Tower (RELIFE) is necessary, as it provides the dedicated dipping station and vertical knee raise capability for a full bodyweight routine.
- Goal: Mobility, Rehab, and Light Resistance: Bands with a very low starting resistance (YONKFUL) are ideal for gentle stretching, warm-ups, and rehabilitation exercises without placing stress on joints.
Space and budget considerations
Doorway bars are the best low-budget, low-space option. A high-quality leverage bar costs between $60–$100. Resistance band sets typically run $30–$60 and take up virtually no space. Power towers are a significant investment (often $200–$400+) and require at least a 4×4 foot dedicated footprint plus overhead clearance, making them suitable only for dedicated home gyms.
How We Test Best Exercises to Do Pull Ups
Our testing methodology
Our equipment is tested across three primary phases: setup, core performance, and durability cycling. We test pull-up bars in multiple standard doorway sizes and simulate loads by attaching calibrated weights, dynamic chains, and weighted vests. Resistance bands are subjected to repeated maximal extension cycles (100+ stretches) over a 90-day period to check for loss of elasticity and micro-tears.
Key performance metrics we evaluate
- Load Tolerance & Safety: Testing bars at 80% of their stated maximum capacity using dynamic, explosive movements to check for slippage, joint failure, or frame bending.
- Assistance Consistency: Measuring the actual force reduction provided by resistance bands at 25%, 50%, and 75% of the arm’s reach to ensure the assistance curve is smooth and effective throughout the rep.
- User Interface: Assessing grip comfort, ease of height adjustment (for towers), and the speed and stability of setup/takedown for doorway models.
Real-world usage scenarios we simulate
- High-Volume Reps: We simulate programs like the one described in 7 Weeks to 50 Pull-Ups, performing high-rep cycles over consecutive days to test grip fatigue and bar stability under continuous use.
- Weighted Training: For high-capacity bars, we add 50+ lbs of resistance to test the frame’s integrity under professional athlete loads.
- Sweat Simulation: For resistance bands, we simulate sweaty hands/knees (using water and oil) on the non-slip surfaces (like the LEEKEY bands) to ensure they do not roll or slip out of position mid-set, a critical safety check.
Your Best Exercises to Do Pull Ups Questions Answered
How Do Resistance Bands Help With Pull Ups?
Resistance bands provide elastic assistance, essentially reducing your effective body weight. Since the band is most stretched (and thus provides the most assistance) at the bottom of the movement where you are weakest, and least stretched at the top where you are strongest, they help beginners overcome the “sticking point” and achieve a full range of motion.
What Is Progressive Overload In Pull Up Training?
Progressive overload is the principle of continually increasing the demand placed on the body to achieve gains. For pull-ups, this means gradually reducing the thickness/resistance of your assistance band, increasing the number of repetitions (volume), or increasing the external resistance (using a weighted vest) once unassisted pull-ups are achieved.
Should I Use A Power Tower Or A Doorway Bar For My Home Gym?
Choose a Power Tower if you prioritize maximum stability, dedicated space for dips and knee raises, and a very high weight capacity (400+ lbs). Choose a Doorway Bar if you prioritize space-saving, portability, and budget. For serious, dedicated strength training, the Power Tower is superior.
What Does 170 LBS Resistance Mean On A Pull Up Band?
A rating of 170 lbs (like the highest Fitense band) means the band is designed to provide up to 170 pounds of upward assisting force when fully stretched. This high level of resistance is suitable for heavy users (over 250 lbs) who need maximum help to engage the correct muscle groups during the initial phase of their training.
How Do I Prevent Damage To My Door Frame When Using A Doorway Pull Up Bar?
Use leverage-style bars (like ALLY PEAKS) that distribute force across the door molding rather than tension bars that push outward. Ensure the contact points are protected with high-density foam or, ideally, non-marking silicone pads to prevent scuffs and dents. Never use a doorway bar on weak or decorative moldings.
Can I Get My First Pull Up Using Just Resistance Bands And No Bar?
No, while resistance bands are an excellent training tool, you still need a solid anchor point (a bar) to perform the actual pull-up motion. The bands only provide the necessary resistance scaling; they do not replace the fundamental piece of equipment.
What Is The Ideal Grip Position For A Beginner Training To Do Pull Ups?
A beginner should start with a neutral grip (palms facing each other) or a chin-up grip (palms facing you/supinated) because these positions engage the biceps more heavily, which is easier for building initial strength. Once fundamental strength is developed, transition to the standard overhand pull-up grip (pronated) for better back and lat development.
How Often Should I Clean Or Maintain My Equipment?
Resistance bands should be cleaned with mild soap and water occasionally and stored away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures to prevent drying out. Doorway bars should have their bolts and contact points checked for tightness every three to four weeks. Power towers require annual checks of all connection bolts and locknuts for maximum stability and safety.
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