Effect of the Pronated Pull-Up Grip Width on Performance and Power-Force-Velocity Profile

ABSTRACT

Purpose: The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of the grip width on the power-force-velocity-profile, the maximal strength, and performance during a repetition to failure test in the pull-up exercise (PU). Method: Fourteen trained males performed an incremental loading and repetitions to failure test with the PU exercise using biacromial and free grip widths. Power-force-velocity relationship, 1RM, and repetitions completed were determined. Results: The mean grip width used by participants was 20.04% higher in the free grip width condition (p < .001). There were similar results in the 1RM (p = .954), repetitions to failure test (p = .117), and power-force-velocity profile (p > .05) in both grip width conditions. A stronger relationship was observed between 1RM and repetitions to failure test during the biacromial (R² = 0.720; p < .001) with respect to the free grip width (R² = 0.607; p = .002). Conclusion: Therefore, the choice of a free or a biacromial grip width does not affect the maximal strength, power-force-velocity relationship, nor the repetitions to failure during the PU exercise.

KEYWORDS:

• Conditioning
• physical fitness
• resistance training
• testing

Acknowledgments

The authors thank all the participants who selflessly participated in the study.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation under grant [DEP2015-64350-P-MINECO/FEDER].