"Kipping pull-ups have the same advantages over strict pull-ups that the jerk has over the shoulder press. Each is a fundamentally more potent stimulus than its less dynamic, less powerful counterpart. Our program’s extensive reliance on the more dynamic, powerful movements holds the seeds of our athletes’ successes.” —Greg Glassman, from the CrossFit Journal Issue 32 - April 2005 | CrossFit

The kipping pull-up is one of the most debated movements in CrossFit. To many outside the sport, it looks like “cheating” or “no reps,” but in reality, it serves a specific purpose. CrossFitters are taught that kipping is not a replacement for strict strength—in fact, the training materials emphasize that athletes must develop and maintain strict pulling strength as a foundation. So why kip? Because it allows CrossFitters to perform more reps in less time, which elevates the cardiovascular deman