One Arm Pull Up vs Planche: Which Exercise Will Give You the Best Results?

The quest for superhuman strength often leads us to explore the most challenging feats of physical prowess. Two such feats, the one arm pull up and the planche, stand as towering monuments to upper body strength and control. Both exercises demand incredible strength, but they also differ in their specific demands, making the “better” exercise a matter of perspective and goals. This article will delve into the intricacies of each movement, examining their mechanics, benefits, and the path to mastering them.

The One Arm Pull Up: The King of Upper Body Strength

The one arm pull up is often considered the holy grail of upper body strength exercises. It requires an astonishing level of pulling power, grip strength, and core stability.

Mechanics:

• Grip: The one arm pull up is typically performed with a pronated grip (palms facing away from the body), but can also be done with a supinated grip (palms facing towards the body).
• Movement: The exercise involves hanging from a bar with one hand and pulling oneself up until the chin clears the bar. The other arm remains by the side, offering no assistance.
• Muscles Involved: The primary muscles engaged are the latissimus dorsi, biceps brachii, brachialis, and the forearms. However, the core also plays a crucial role in maintaining stability throughout the movement.

Benefits:

• Unrivaled Strength: The one arm pull up is a testament to raw pulling power. It develops incredible strength in the back, biceps, and forearms.
• Improved Grip Strength: The exercise demands an exceptionally strong grip, which translates to better performance in other pull-based exercises and everyday activities.
• Enhanced Core Stability: Maintaining a stable core is essential for executing a proper one arm pull up, leading to improved core strength and control.

The Planche: A Symphony of Strength and Control

The planche is a static strength exercise that requires a remarkable combination of strength and control. It involves holding the body in a horizontal position with the arms extended and the body supported by the hands.

Mechanics:

• Position: The planche is performed with the arms fully extended and the body held horizontal, parallel to the ground. The hands are placed shoulder-width apart, with the fingers pointing forward.
• Muscles Involved: The planche predominantly engages the chest, shoulders, triceps, and core muscles. The exercise requires significant isometric strength to maintain the position.
• Variations: The planche has several variations, including the planche lean, planche push-up, and the full planche. Each variation targets different muscle groups and requires a different level of strength and control.

Benefits:

• Explosive Strength: The planche develops incredible isometric strength, which can translate to explosive power in pushing and pulling movements.
• Improved Shoulder Stability: Maintaining the planche position requires significant shoulder stability, leading to better shoulder health and injury prevention.
• Enhanced Core Strength: The planche heavily emphasizes core strength and control. It reinforces the ability to maintain a stable core under pressure.

One Arm Pull Up vs Planche: A Comparative Analysis

While both exercises demand remarkable strength, they differ in their specific demands and the benefits they offer.

• Muscle Focus: The one arm pull up primarily targets the back and biceps, while the planche emphasizes the chest, shoulders, and triceps. Both exercises engage the core, but the one arm pull up requires greater core stability during the dynamic movement.
• Strength vs. Control: The one arm pull up is a dynamic movement that emphasizes pulling strength, while the planche is a static hold that focuses on isometric strength and control.
• Progression: The one arm pull up typically requires a higher level of overall strength to achieve, while the planche can be progressed more gradually with exercises like the planche lean and planche push-up.

The Path to Mastery: Building Strength for Both Feats

Achieving either the one arm pull up or the planche requires a dedicated training plan and consistent effort.

Training for the One Arm Pull Up:

• Build a Strong Foundation: Begin by mastering the regular pull-up and gradually increasing the number of repetitions.
• Develop Grip Strength: Incorporate grip-specific exercises like dead hangs, farmer’s walks, and wrist curls.
• Strengthen the Core: Focus on core exercises like planks, hollow holds, and anti-rotation presses.
• Practice Assisted One Arm Pull Ups: Utilize an assisted pull-up machine or a resistance band to gradually reduce the weight you need to lift.
• Progress Gradually: Don’t rush the process. Focus on consistent improvement and listen to your body.

Training for the Planche:

• Develop a Strong Push-Up Base: Master the standard push-up and progressively increase the difficulty with variations like decline push-ups and handstand push-ups.
• Strengthen the Shoulders: Include exercises like shoulder presses, lateral raises, and front raises.
• Focus on Core Strength: Practice planks, hollow holds, and anti-rotation presses to build a strong core.
• Progress with Planche Variations: Start with the planche lean and gradually progress to the planche push-up before attempting the full planche.
• Practice Regularly: Consistent practice is key to building the strength and control needed for the planche.

The Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?

Ultimately, the choice between the one arm pull up and the planche depends on your individual goals and preferences.

• For those seeking raw pulling strength and a challenging feat of strength: The one arm pull up is an excellent choice.
• For those who value isometric strength, control, and shoulder stability: The planche is a compelling option.

Both exercises are incredibly demanding and require a significant commitment to training. However, the rewards of mastering either feat are immense, both physically and mentally.

The End of the Road: Reflecting on Strength and Mastery

The one arm pull up and the planche stand as testaments to the human capacity for strength and control. They are not just exercises; they are symbols of dedication, perseverance, and the pursuit of physical excellence. Whether you choose to conquer the one arm pull up or embrace the planche, the journey to mastery will be a rewarding one, filled with challenges and triumphs.

What People Want to Know

Q: Can I achieve both the one arm pull up and the planche?

A: While both exercises are incredibly challenging, it is possible to achieve both with dedicated training and a well-structured plan. Focus on building a strong foundation in both pulling and pushing exercises, and gradually progress towards your goals.

Q: How long does it take to master either exercise?

A: The time it takes to master either exercise varies significantly based on individual factors like training experience, genetics, and dedication. It can take anywhere from several months to a few years to achieve one arm pull ups or a full planche.

Q: Are there any risks associated with these exercises?

A: Both exercises can be risky if performed with improper form or without adequate preparation. It’s crucial to start with progressions, focus on proper technique, and listen to your body to avoid injury.

Q: Can I modify these exercises to make them more accessible?

A: Yes, both exercises can be modified to make them more accessible to beginners. For the one arm pull up, you can use an assisted pull-up machine or resistance bands. For the planche, you can start with the planche lean and gradually progress to more challenging variations.