Programming Lat Pulldowns in place of Pull-Ups/Chin-Ups

[Schwiggity]

So I think I finally have a worthy question to ask in here. I just recently restarted linear progression, and decided to do Practical Programming because I want to eventually build up to doing Pull-Ups and Chin-Ups (kind of lofty goal considering I weigh over 300 pounds). I know losing weight will help with this, but it's not like I'm going to drop 100 pounds over the course of a month. I've seen different tutorials and read about banded chin-ups in the book, but even with the band with the highest resistance my gym has, I could only get 3/4 way up to a full chin-up.

I haven't tried negatives yet, but seeing as I couldn't even get to the top of the movement with the 2nd strongest bands in the gym, I have my doubts about me being able to do them.

I figured I might keep the same set-up of alternating a pull-up grip and chin-up grip, though let me know if that's not a good idea. I've gotten some suggestions in the other Programming forum about doing higher volume for Pulldowns, but the rep schemes varied. I was hoping you may have some suggestions about what might work best. My plan is to work up to being able to do the Banded Pull-Ups/Chin-Ups and then reduce the assistance until I can do them at bodyweight for reps.

[Andy Baker (KSC)]

Yes. For real heavy guys, starting out with lat pulls is fine. Do anywhere from 3-5 sets of 8-12 reps. If you really want to make this a priority, plug them in twice per week and use different grips.

[Schwiggity]

Thanks for the quick response. Sounds like a plan.