Weighted Pull-Up Challenge

Pull-ups & chin-ups are one of the best tests of upper-body strength. Our strength standards fall into different tiers based on bodyweight (BW) plus additional load. Simply put, this is a half, 1, 2, 3, and 4 plate loaded pull-up challenge.

Weighted Pull-Up Challenge Rules

To become a challenge member, you must complete at least one tier of the weighted pull-up challenge. Pronated, supinated, and neutral grips are permitted, allowing pull-ups, chin-ups, and neutral-grip variations. You are allowed to submit attempts for all five, but only one is required to get on the leaderboard. Each successfully completed tier will be recorded on the leaderboard.

Half Plate: 5 reps or more @ 25 lb / 10 kg
1 Plate: 3 reps or more @ 45 lb / 20 kg
2 Plate: 1 rep or more @ 90 lb / 40 kg
3 Plate: 1 rep or more @ 135 lb / 60 kg
4 Plate: 1 rep or more @ 180 lb / 80 kg

Weighted Pull-Up Standards

Read the following section on lift standards, allowed equipment, and video requirements, as well as the FAQ below. Failure to meet these requirements may result in disqualification.

Pull-Up Form
  • Pull-ups, chin-ups, and neutral grip are permitted.
  • Every rep must begin and end with arms fully over head, elbows extended and shoulders flexed (dead-hang).
  • Chin must visibly raise above the bar.
  • No kipping or excessive lower body momentum.
  • The set terminates when you make contact with the ground.
Pull-Up Equipment

Allowed

  • Chalk, dip belts, weight vests, and other measurable external loads.

Not Allowed

  • Gloves, straps, or other grip devices.
  • Bands or other assistive devices.
Pull-Up Video Requirements
  • Video must clearly show all weights.
  • Lifter must remain fully visible at all times, with no obstructions that interfere with judging.
  • Video Angles
    • Use a front angle. A slight angle toward the side is also acceptable.
    • Videos taken directly from the back are difficult to judge and will likely require resubmission.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do applicants get?

All applicants get:

  • A form check with feedback.
  • Added to the leaderboard (if accepted).
  • A chance at a social media spotlight.

Applicants selected for a solo video may additionally receive:

  • Custom acceptance letter with their name and lift numbers
  • Official member/challenge decal.

Additionally, applicants who select a Pro/Elite application have access to more benefits including guaranteed faster processing times, shirts/patches, public links to your social media profile, and acceptance letters & official decals.

Do you post everyone to social media?

Due to high volumes of submitted videos, we’re unable to feature every lifter individually. Select submissions are chosen on overall fit, however, these items will increase your chances:

  • Following us on social media.
  • Having solid form & clearly meeting all standards.
  • Having a unique submission.
  • Submitting a high definition video with:
    • No watermarks
    • Vertical / 9:16 ratio
    • No or minimal text on screen

Additionally, if you’d like to remain out of the spotlight, you can select to not be shared to social media, or to be shared, but not tagged.

Do all my lifts need to be done on the same day, and can I update my totals later on?
  • All lifts do not need to be done on the same day, but they must be done in the same week.
  • For the 2026 cycle, lifts must be from 2026.

    • Exception: lifts performed in December 2025 may be submitted through February 1, 2026. After February 1, 2026, no 2025 lifts will be accepted.

  • You may submit multiple times within a given year. Any update to your total requires a new submission of all lifts.
Do I need to weigh my weights on camera and list them?

Our rules are designed to be simple. You do not need to record yourself weighing plates—just ensure the camera clearly shows the total load.

Can I use competition videos?

Yes, but we treat these videos like any other submission; video must clearly show you hitting standards. If the video is a bad angle or people are obstructing the view, getting white lights in the competition does not guarantee your lift is validated here. 

What happens if one of my lifts is not accepted?

You have one month from the time of notification to resubmit any required changes using the resubmission form. If you fall outside of the one month window, a full new submission is required.

Will you make any exceptions to these rules or other items listed below?

If you have any questions or are requesting an exemption, send us a message via the contact page. For example, if you are an adaptive athlete and need accommodations, we will review your needs on a case-by-case basis.

Apply for the Weighted Pull-Up Challenge

Visit the Weighted Pull-Up Challenge application page below to apply and submit your lifts.

APPLY HERE