I thought pull-ups were beyond me until I tried this exercise that also improved my grip and back strength

A man performing pull ups on a pull up bar.

There’s something seriously impressive about walking into the gym, jumping onto a bar and pulling your chin above it with ease. It’s one of those exercises that instantly screams athletic, strong and seriously capable. The problem? Pull-ups are hard. Really hard.

I can barely manage one rep, and if I do, it’s usually one of those swingy, messy attempts that look more like a kipping pull-up than an actual pull-up.