Does the Perfect-Pullup™ Do Anything? 4

You’ve seen it. You’ve seen the Perfect-Pullup™ sitting on the shelves. You’ve probably even wondered if it works. Well not so fast.

According to a recent study comparing pull-ups, chin-ups, and the Perfect-Pullup™ concluded:

The Perfect·Pullup™ rotational device does not appear to enhance muscular recruitment when compared to the conventional pull-up or chin-up.

But the research had some other interesting tidbits as well.

Average EMG muscle activation values (%MVIC) were as follows: latissimus dorsi (117-130%), biceps brachii (78-96%), infraspinatus (71-79%), lower trapezius (45-56%), pectoralis major (44-57%), erector spinae (39-41%), and external oblique (31-35%). The pectoralis major and biceps brachii had significantly higher EMG activation during the chin-up than during the pull-up, whereas the lower trapezius was significantly more active during the pull-up. No differences were detected between the Perfect·Pullup™ with twisting handles and the conventional pull-up and chin-up exercises.

Look at the muscles involved in doing a pullup, listed in order of activation:

1. lats – build that big V-shape in the back
2. biceps – bring out the gun-show
3. infraspinatus – infra…spin…wah? Yes, it means shoulder muscle. Check out the Infraspinatus muscle on Wikipedia
4. lower traps – build a mountain for a neck
5. pects – remember say no to man boobs
6. erector spinae – center of your spine
7. external oblique – I found these after a few weeks of Intermittent fasting

While the Perfect-Pullup™ doesn’t do anything. Performing a perfect form pull-up or chin-up is a great exercise. So skip the pointless equipment, get out on that bar and do a few more reps.