I think the main problem with the Crossfit-kipping-approach you often see on YouTube is that it doesn't look like the person being filmed is at all interested i

I think the main problem with the Crossfit-kipping-approach you often see on YouTube is that it doesn't look like the person being filmed is at all interested in ever transitioning to a proper muscle up, but rather to kip as much as possible to get as many reps as possible in 60 second or w/e. You're absolutely right in that you need to start somewhere, and a properly instructed kip can definitely help there. But you could also start by doing negatives of the partial exercises (start pulled/pushed up and lower yourself down in a controlled manner), which can be at the same time used to teach proper form and naturally transition into a full muscle up. Once again, it's the classic Crossfit problem: if you do it properly and controlled, it is a nice exercise regimen. According to most anecdotal evidence, a lot of people don't, though. Edit: retiredcoder also replied with bands etc. to support in the beginning, which is obviously also a good method and, now that I think of it, one I've often seen in my gym. In the same vein, there's usually a pull up machine somewhere in the back that will support you by using a counterweight on the way up, though here you'll have the usual discussion regarding machine/no machine.