Why You're Strong But Can't Do a Pull-Up

pull-ups Aug 21, 2024

Why You're Strong but Still Can't Do a Pull-Up: The Science and Solution

Hello, strong ladies! If you’re feeling strong yet still unable to perform a pull-up, you’re not alone. It’s frustrating to feel powerful in the gym but hit a wall when it comes to this one move. Today, we’ll dive into the science behind why this happens and how you can finally conquer that elusive pull-up.

Meet Angela Gargano

If this is your first time here, I’m Angela Gargano, a six-time American Ninja Warrior and creator of Pull-Up Revolution and Strong Feels Good. I’ve helped over 500 women of all ages, sizes, and abilities conquer their first pull-up in record time. So if you’ve been feeling like age, weight, or other factors are holding you back, let me assure you—it’s not about those things. You just need the right approach.

The Frustration: Strong but Stuck

You’re strong, you show up at the gym, you lift heavy, yet when it’s time to pull...

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If not NOW, then when? 

Uncategorized Aug 20, 2024

I remember those days vividly—working 12-hour overnight shifts as a scientist from 7 pm to 7 am, with a 45-minute commute on top of that. Coaching gymnastics on the side, somehow squeezing in sleep, and trying to maintain some semblance of a healthy diet and workout routine—it all felt impossible. I’d often ask myself, How on earth am I going to keep this up? The mental load was overwhelming, and it seemed like my personal goals were always the first to get sacrificed.

But then I had a moment of clarity: If not now, then when? If I kept pushing my goals to the back burner, what would happen? Would I wake up one day and wonder, Where did my life go?

One day, I just decided. No more waiting, no more excuses—this was the time. I started fitting in my workouts at midnight during my lunch break (and don’t worry, it was safe!). I packed my lunch, and I made the conscious choice to put myself first. And guess what? People started...

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I hired my own personal coach!

Uncategorized Aug 13, 2024
Last week, I took a big step and hired my own personal coach. Why? Because I truly believe that having a coach can significantly boost your success in achieving personal goals. A coach helps you stay focused, motivated, and gives you the tough love you need to get things done!

For me, I’ve been itching to do more public speaking. I love being on big stages and have spoken in front of thousands. But somehow, I keep saying I’ll do more of it “when I’m ready.” Sound familiar? My coach called me out on it and said, “Angela, you’re already ready.” No more waiting for the perfect time—it’s now or never.

"If we keep waiting for “when” or “later,” it will NEVER happen."

 I mean, seriously, how is it already August? Time is flying, and we never know how much we have left. There will always be life and things coming up, but what's it going to take for you to finally start working on that personal...

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How Women Are Redefining Aging in the Olympics

Uncategorized Aug 05, 2024

Re-defining aging & Breaking Barriers in Olympic Gymnastics 2024 ‍

As a former college gymnast and athlete, I can vividly recall being told that once I hit the “college” level, I was too “old” to ever compete in the Olympics. For years, aging was viewed as a barrier in athletics, especially in gymnastics. The notion was that after a certain age, pursuing athletic dreams was out of reach.

But here’s the truth: I’m 34 years old now, and I’ve discovered strength in my 30s that I never knew was possible. I’ve had to adapt and change my approach, but I’ve become stronger both physically and mentally. And it’s not just me; I’ve had the privilege of helping hundreds of women in their 40s, 50s, 60s, and 70s achieve the same!

This year’s Olympic gymnastics team is redefining what it means to be an athlete at any age. They’re proving that age is just a number and that they are getting better with age. These...

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I am retiring from Ninja Warrior..

Uncategorized Jul 30, 2024

I have some big news to share with you all. Last week, I made the decision not to submit for American Ninja Warrior this year. After six amazing seasons of competing, I decided that this chapter of my life has closed. So, in today’s newsletter, I want to reflect on my Ninja Warrior endeavors, what I’ve learned, and what’s next for me.

So many of you ask me, “Angela, how did you even get on to American Ninja Warrior? What was that process like?” The truth is, it was a total accident. My friend was trying out for the show, and I didn’t want to step on her toes and try out also. But someone else said, “Angela, you would be perfect!” After a ton of convincing, I decided to make a video. You can watch it here if you’re curious: Watch my ANW audition video.

I then randomly got called a few weeks later saying, “YOU ARE ON AMERICAN NINJA WARRIOR.” I remember thinking it was a spam number and being in disbelief that I got...

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Get a pull-up by your next birthday! (6 week workout plan for women!)

pull-ups Jul 23, 2024

If you're aiming to achieve your first pull-up, especially if you’re setting a goal like getting there by your birthday, this guide is for you. Pull-ups are a fantastic full-body exercise, engaging not just your shoulders and arms but also your back, core, and glutes. This step-by-step plan will help you build the strength and confidence needed to nail your first pull-up.

Step 1: Understanding the Process

Achieving a pull-up is not just about sheer strength. It’s about technique, consistency, and proper progression. Start by acknowledging that this journey requires dedication and a structured plan. You wouldn't fly a plane without a flight plan, so treat your fitness journey with the same respect.

Step 2: Setting the Foundation

Warm-Up and Mobility

Begin each session with a good warm-up and mobility routine. This not only prepares your muscles for the workout but also helps prevent injuries. Focus on exercises that enhance your shoulder mobility, as tight shoulders can...

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I almost died during an all out mile 😅

Uncategorized Jul 23, 2024

So... I almost died during an all-out mile…

Okay, that's exaggerating, but kind of…and it was pretty embarrassing. Let me explain.

As many of you know, I've been known for my athletic achievements. As a 6x American Ninja Warrior, Miss Fitness America 2016, and a college gymnast, people often look at me and say, "Damn, she's fit. This must be so easy for her."

Well, those titles only tell part of the story. For me, I've never been the person who was just "naturally talented." I didn’t just wake up and become a Ninja Warrior or win a fitness competition. I had to work my ass off, putting in hours and hours each week to see results. I had to push past costume malfunctions, a broken foot, tearing my ACL, and so much more.

My success wasn't due to natural talent; it was because of my resilience and refusal to give up when things got hard.

But there's one thing I still haven't been able to crack all these years: running. ‍

It all started in elementary...

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I Couldn't Afford It – But It Changed Everything!

Uncategorized Jul 16, 2024

This week, I took a huge leap of faith and went to a business workshop in Vegas where I was surrounded by extremely successful entrepreneurs! I’m not going to lie…I couldn’t “afford” to be in the room…but when I was asked to do it, I KNEW that if I could be in the room with others who were where I want to be, it would be so beneficial.

 Realization: When you are trying to do it ALL on your own, piecing things together to make it work, it can be a frustrating and lonely place. I knew that being in the room with others who have endured hardships and “figured it out” would be a game-changer for me. But I really didn’t have the money, which I was almost embarrassed about. I was sure most of these business owners could afford this workshop with no problem.

And then I realized that the reason they were this successful was because they took chances on themselves. They PUT themselves in rooms with people who had been there, done...

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My Winning Weekly Routine: Getting Back into My Groove 🏆

Uncategorized Jul 09, 2024

Over the past few months, I've been re-finding myself and getting back on a schedule that truly works for me. After living with a partner for about a year, I found myself constantly adjusting to his schedule and losing sight of what actually works for me. Finally, after being single and on my own for a few months, I feel like I'm getting back into my groove, re-learning the way I like to do things, and rediscovering parts of myself that I had forgotten.

I wanted to share some of the things I've been doing that are working for me, in case you want to try them too!

Sunday Planning Sessions

First thing is planning my week on Sunday. I had gotten out of the habit of doing this fully. Now, on Sunday, the first thing I do is plan my personal and self-care activities. WHY? Because everything else can and will become a priority, but what's actually more important is taking care of me. If I do that, I will show up better for EVERYTHING—my clients, my Pull-up Revolution...

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A PAWTY and a Pep Talk: What My Dog Taught Me About Self-Talk

Uncategorized Jul 02, 2024

This week was extra special because my dog, Pepper, celebrated her 1st birthday! Losing my cat Felix back in 2021 after 18 wonderful years was heartbreaking. I knew I wanted to get a dog eventually, but it wasn’t until this year that I felt ready. When I went to pick out my doggie, I just knew that SHE was the one! Pepper was a little bossy, confident, and had the biggest smile. Since then, I've become a crazy dog mom.

Pepper has brought so much joy into my life, filling a void I hadn't realized was so deep. She's taught me and helped me in so many ways. Thanks to her, I now get 10,000 steps in daily without even thinking about it, as we enjoy multiple walks each day. She even helps me break my phone habit by literally knocking it out of my hand! And if I'm stressed, she’ll drop to her back for a belly rub, and suddenly, everything feels better.

We celebrated her birthday with a pool PAWTY, inviting all her friends. It was way cooler than any human birthday party,...

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