You might have seen people around the Lab doing weighted pull-ups, or even had them suggested as a progression or RX+ in a class. But when are you really ready to advance to a weighted pull-up? The answer can vary based on who you talk to but a good, safe starting place is when you can perform 10-15 strict bodyweight pull-ups. Additionally it’s recommended you have demonstrated good scapular control, a controlled eccentric (lowering) phase during bodyweight pull-ups, and overall no significant pain during the movement. If programming loads at lower reps, targeting more maximal strength adaptations, you may want to add weight sooner than doing achieving 15 reps at bodyweight. Healthy shoulders and movement control should remain a common denominator. Lastly, for those of you using bands for assisted pull-ups wondering “I can’t even do one bodyweight squat when will I ever get to do weighted pull-ups?!” If you’re wanting to do “heavier assisted pull-ups” to target a lower rep range, tr...