A lot of beginners start with chin-ups before they can do a clean pull-up. That makes sense because the underhand grip is easier for many people and allows the biceps to contribute more.

But if your chin-ups still look shaky or you cannot complete one clean rep yet, I would keep your training very simple.

You do not need ten different exercises. I would focus on two things: isometric holds for specific strength and Australian pull-ups for enough quality volume.

1. Chin-Up Isometric Holds for Strength

The first exercise is the chin-up isometric hold. Jump into the top position or use a box to get there, then hold yourself as long as possible.

Stay tight and controlled instead of just hanging from the bar. Keep your body stable and actively hold the position. I would do around 3 to 4 sets.

The advantage is that you can build strength in a difficult chin-up position even if you are not strong enough to complete full reps yet.

2. Add Volume With Australian Pull-Ups

Three or four holds alone are not enough. You also need more pulling volume if you want to improve quickly.

That is where Australian pull-ups with an underhand grip come in. Turn your palms toward you like you would in a chin-up and pull your upper body toward the bar.

I would do around 4 to 6 sets of 7 to 10 reps. Choose a body angle that makes the sets challenging while still allowing you to keep good technique. As you get stronger, move your body into a more horizontal position to make the exercise harder.

Why This Combination Works

The isometric holds give you specific strength for the chin-up, while Australian pull-ups allow you to build much more quality volume for your back, biceps and overall pulling strength.

That combination works especially well when full chin-ups are still too difficult. You practice the movement specifically while also getting enough repetitions to actually become stronger.

And once your chin-ups become solid, you are usually much closer to your first clean pull-up as well.

Conclusion

If you want to learn your first chin-up, do not make the process more complicated than it needs to be. Start with 3 to 4 sets of chin-up isometric holds, then follow them with 4 to 6 sets of underhand Australian pull-ups.

Focus on clean reps, stay consistent and gradually make the exercises harder. That gives you a simple way to build both strength and volume for your first clean chin-ups and, later on, your pull-ups.