Hi
Is it important to retract the scapula when doing pullups? if so, why?
Also, should you brace for a pullup, and is there a relationship between bracing and retracting the scapula?
Thanks
No, this is not necessary.
I’m also not sure what you mean by “brace” for a pull-up. Some will take a held breath/valsalva for particular hard reps at the end of a set or under heavy weighted pull-ups, but this isn’t strictly “necessary” either.
Just grab the bar and pull yourself up, no need to over-think it.