Chest Dip

Level
intermediate
Force
push
Mechanic
compound
Equipment
dip station
Category
strength
Primary Muscles
Secondary Muscles

A bodyweight dip that emphasizes the chest by leaning forward during the movement.

Instructions

  1. Grip a dip bar or parallel bars with your hands shoulder-width apart, arms fully extended to support your body weight.
  2. Lean your torso forward at approximately a 30-45 degree angle to emphasize chest activation.
  3. Lower your body by bending your elbows, descending until your elbows reach 90 degrees or slightly past.
  4. Keep your elbows flared out to the sides rather than tucked against your body.
  5. Push through your hands to return to the starting position, extending your elbows.
  6. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

Tips

  • Lean forward more for increased chest activation
  • Keep your core tight to maintain control
  • You can add weight using a dip belt for increased difficulty
  • Go through a full range of motion for maximum chest engagement

Recommended starting values

Sensible novice starting points for each goal, for a lifter aged 25–40. Scale down for smaller frames or older lifters. Treat the first set of any session as a discovery set.

Goal Sets Reps
Gain strength 3 7 reps
Build muscle 3 10 reps
Build endurance 3 14 reps

Alternatives

Exercises that target the same muscles with the same force and mechanic.

Atomic Push-Up (TRX / Suspension Trainer)

Learn more about atomic push-up (trx / suspension trainer)
intermediate strength

Bench Press Tricep Extension (Cable)

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expert strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
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intermediate strength
intermediate strength
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intermediate strength
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