Chin-ups

[theferret]

As much as possible, I try to do chin-ups. Are chin-ups really helpful? I'm 16 and ever since I started doing them i definetely gained muscle mass and I've gotten much stronger...but I was just wondering if chin-ups will help me in the physical tests in the long run.
also quick question, when I do my chinups i feel an awful slight pop in my left forearm. I have no idea what it is...but it certainly isn't comfortable and is preventing me from doing my normal 14 chin ups sets. :/ anyone have any idea what is with my arm?

[Sgt. Slaughter]

Excercise is goooood. "Popping" depending on where in your forearm it's at, could simply be a tendon rolling over a joint. We're cops, not doctors, but tendon movement can be painful when repeated over and over. You should have your parents get you to a doctor to make sure it's not something bad. Don't screw yourself up permanently....

[theferret]

alright. Yeah the popping like thing happens after i do a good deal of chinups. Personally, I don't keep track of how many i do but the most i can do at one time is 16. After i do about 2-3 sets of those it just hurts for the rest of the day if I put stress on it. It'll be fine the next day though...
Thanks. I'll find a doctor or something

[JoetheGI]

Number 1. STRETCH and warm up prior to resistance training.

Incorporate some cardio PRIOR to your resistance training. This has worked for me for 20 years brother.

Number 2. The chin up bar is an OUTSTANDING way to build FUNCTIONAL muscle mass, strength and endurance!

I suggest expanding your routine on the bars with pull ups and behind the neck pull ups.

I incorporate the bars in my upper body regimen in 3 sets:

6 x chin ups (palms facing you)
6 x pull ups (as wide as possible, palms facing away)
6 x behind the neck pull ups (wide as possible, palms away, pull up and touch the back of your neck)

Than do the same but only 5 reps, than again with 4 reps.

I do this in conjunction with other upper body exercises in one set, ie

Partner resistant push ups x 3 types
chin up bar exercises
tricep extensions
dips
rope climbs

This approach has kept me lean, healthy, and functionally strong for years.