Close-Grip EZ-Bar Press
Level
intermediate
Force
push
Mechanic
compound
Equipment
e z curl bar Category
strength Primary Muscles

Compound pressing movement emphasizing the triceps using a close grip on an EZ bar, performed from a flat bench.
Instructions
- Lie on a flat bench with an EZ bar loaded to an appropriate weight.
- Using a narrow grip, lift the bar and hold it straight over your torso with your elbows in. The arms should be perpendicular to the floor. This will be your starting position.
- Lower the bar down to your lower chest as you breathe in. Keep the elbows in as you perform this movement.
- Using the triceps to push the bar back up, press it back to the starting position by extending the elbows as you exhale.
- Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.
Tips
- Keep your elbows tucked close to your body to maximize triceps engagement and minimize chest involvement.
- The EZ bar reduces wrist strain compared to a straight bar when using a close grip.
- Lower the bar in a controlled manner; avoid dropping it to your chest.
- Press through your triceps rather than pushing with your chest for better tricep activation.
- Maintain a stable position on the bench throughout the movement.
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 | Weight | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Male | Female | |||
| Gain strength | 3 | 7 reps | 11 kg | 6 kg |
| Build muscle | 3 | 10 reps | 10 kg | 6 kg |
| Build endurance | 3 | 14 reps | 8 kg | 4 kg |
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