Thread: Another newbie question: Replacement for pullups?

Pullovers, perhaps.

Originally Posted by Autarch

I would rather not drill holes and install a pullup bar unless I have to.
Is there an excercise I can do with dumbells that would replace pullups? I will install a pullup bar if I have to but I would rather use free weights if I can.

There are back exercises you can do with dumbells, as for replacing pullups with a dumbell exercise, I think gravity gets in the way here.

If you can get your hands on a cable machine, use that for pulldowns. Is there no tree outside that you could use? The ledge above a door? An overhead shelf? Look around your house, I am sure there are tons of things you can try. Be creative.

I think I will probably just end up installing a pullup bar. It's an easy install but the only easy place for me to put it is in the entry to our laundry room.

Meh. Anything that helps me put on muscle

You could pick up one of those pullup bars that fits over the top lip of a door, and then tightens out against the door jams. I think they can hold 200-250lbs.

Lay your head and part of your shoulders over the end of your bench and pull the db's palms up from the floor around your shoulders to above your chest then return ... or ... palms down over your shoulders along next to your head to above your chest and return. Start these with less poundage that you would expect ... they are fun and will kick your ass after a few sets.