Pull · Calisthenics
Typewriter Pull-Up - The complete guide
The typewriter pull-up is an advanced unilateral variation where you hold your chin over the bar and move side to side - almost like a typewriter carriage shifting lines.
How to perform it
- 1Take a wide overhand grip, wider than shoulder width
- 2Pull up until your chin is over the bar
- 3Shift your weight toward one hand and extend the opposite arm fully out to the side
- 4Move horizontally across to the extended arm while your chin stays over the bar
- 5Reverse direction and move to the other side
Common mistakes
⚠️ Chin drops below the bar mid-movement
⚠️ Using hip swing instead of controlled upper-body strength
⚠️ Attempting it before you can do 10+ strict pull-ups
Progression - the path to mastering it
1. 10+ strict pull-ups
2. Archer pull-ups on both sides
3. Half typewriter (short side shift)
4. Full typewriter side to side
5. Typewriter with a pause in the middle
FAQ
What strength should I have first?
At least 10 strict pull-ups and solid archer pull-ups on both sides - typewriters demand significantly more one-sided strength than a regular pull-up.
Why does my chin drop below the bar?
Usually a lack of lat strength to hold the position isometrically while moving sideways - build it up with longer held archer pull-ups first.
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