Chin-ups work your upper back and arm muscles, specifically the biceps, forearms, shoulders, and latissimus dorsi, or "lats." Like pull-ups, chin-ups also engage your abdominal muscles throughout the move.

Do chin-ups work lower lats?

Select powerful exercises such as pull-ups and chin-ups to strengthen your lats. Use a close-handed grip for both exercises to target your lower lats. For example, during chin-ups, space your hands at shoulder-distance apart or closer, with your palms facing you.

Can chin ups build big lats?

Chin-Up. ... It's important to know that the underhand grip when performing a chin-up will target the biceps, brachialis, and brachioradialis along with the rear delts, upper back muscles, and lats. It's the perfect movement for getting an upper body workout!