Bodyweight Different approach to improving pullups and grip strenth

[Groove Greaser]

My weakness is grip strength, due to nerve damage from a herniated cervical disk.

I believe everybody here knows this - but for anybody landing on this forum after a google search for herniated disc and pull-ups: DO NOT REACH YOUR NECK FORWARD TO PUT YOUR CHIN OVER THE BAR.

Sorry, I'm dealing with this now too (except on my right side) and pull-ups are proving the most difficult fitness move for me to reacquire. Unless I'm extremely mindful of not craning my neck I have a tendency to aggravate my neck and bring back some arm tinglies. (In fact I'm presently just working bar hangs so I can allow further healing)

 

[Bret S.]

Indeed. Grip is way more important than pull strength. But even more important is footwork, body positioning, reading sequences, and other technique issues.

But if one wants to work on both grip and pull at the same time do what are called 'Frenchies'

Pull-up, lock-off and hold for 5 in top position
Lower
Pull-up, lower to 90 deg, lock off and hold for 5
Lower
Pull-up, lower to 135 deg, lock-off and hold for 5
Lower.

That's one 'rep'

And if it's grip you are after... do these on a Fingerboard....

Gnarly