ForearmsBackShouldersBodyweightintermediate

Bodyweight Towel Hang

The towel hang drapes a towel over a pull-up bar and hangs from the towel ends, forcing the fingers and forearms to work much harder than a standard dead hang. It is one of the best grip builders available.

How to Perform

1

Drape a thick towel over a pull-up bar so both ends hang down evenly.

2

Grab one end in each hand with a full grip and lift your feet off the ground.

3

Hang with arms fully extended, squeezing the towel as hard as possible.

4

Aim for timed holds of 20-45 seconds, increasing towel thickness as you progress.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using a towel that is too thin, which does not meaningfully challenge grip beyond a normal hang.

Bending the arms instead of hanging with straight arms, which shifts work to the biceps.

Letting go suddenly when grip fails — lower your feet to the ground in a controlled manner.

Muscle Activation

Forearms85%
Back20%
Shoulders15%

Variations

Fat Grip HangSingle-Arm Towel HangTowel Pull-Up

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