Also known as: tuck raise, ring tuck raise, ring tuck pull, tucked ring raise, tuck pull raise

What is Front Lever Tuck Raise?

Front Lever Tuck Raise is a ring-based pulling exercise that lifts a tucked torso toward an inverted position. It primarily targets the latissimus, triceps, and shoulders while demanding strong core tension. Difficulty: medium — suitable for intermediates building scapular control and slow, controlled pulling strength.


Train this exercise in Caliverse

Add it to a workout, follow progressions, and track your calisthenics progress in the app.

How to Do Front Lever Tuck Raise

  1. Set rings height: Adjust rings at about hip height for a controlled hang; confirm straps and rings are secure and aligned to prevent twisting during the movement.
  2. Grip and posture: Grip rings pronated and retract/depress shoulders; engage lats and keep arms mostly straight, allowing a slight bend if full lockout causes pain.
  3. Tuck knees tight: Bring knees close to your chest and squeeze the core and hip flexors to shorten the lever arm and reduce shoulder torque.
  4. Initiate pull: Pull down on the rings using lat and scapular strength, lifting hips and shoulders so your torso moves toward an inverted position with control.
  5. Control top position: Hold the raised tuck briefly with full core tension and scapular stability; avoid swinging and keep steady breathing to maintain rigidity.
  6. Slow descent: Lower back to the hang slowly, resisting momentum; only fully relax when shoulders and core remain engaged and movement is controlled and safe.

Muscle Groups

Back, Latissimus, Shoulders, Triceps


Description

Hang on rings with your palms facing forward (pronated grip), retracted and depressed shoulders. Begin the movement by bringing your bent knees as close to your chest as possible, as you perform this movement, pull down on the rings while trying to keep your arms straight (if this is too difficult you can slightly bend your arms). Pull until your torso is upside down. This movement will require a lot of lat, core and tricep engagement. You can make it easier by trying to generate more momentum at the beginning. Aim to make it as slow and controlled as possible.
Movement Group: Pull
Equipment: Rings

Progressions and Regressions

None


Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of the Front Lever Tuck Raise?

This exercise builds lat and triceps strength, enhances shoulder stability, and trains full-body tension and scapular control. It’s an effective progression toward advanced lever holds and improves posterior chain recruitment for stronger pulling mechanics.

What common mistakes should I avoid?

Common errors include leading with the arms instead of lats, shrugging shoulders, arching the lower back, and using excessive momentum. Maintain scapular depression, a tight tuck, and slow controlled reps to reduce injury risk and improve efficiency.

How do I progress or find alternatives?

Progress by increasing hold time, moving to an advanced tuck, then straddle or full lever negatives. Alternatives and regressions include ring tuck rows, inverted rows, assisted band front lever holds, and negatives to build requisite strength.