Incline Bench Press (Dumbbell)
A pressing exercise performed on an inclined bench using dumbbells to develop upper chest, anterior deltoids, and triceps.
Instructions
- Sit on an inclined bench set to approximately 30-45 degrees, with your feet flat on the floor or bench extension for stability.
- Hold a dumbbell in each hand at shoulder height with elbows bent at roughly 90 degrees, palms facing forward.
- Press the dumbbells upward and slightly inward until your arms are nearly extended, stopping just short of lockout.
- Pause briefly at the top while maintaining control and tension in your chest and shoulders.
- Lower the dumbbells back down in a controlled manner to shoulder height.
- Repeat for the target number of repetitions.
Tips
- The incline angle emphasizes the upper chest and anterior deltoids more than flat bench pressing.
- Keep your back against the backrest and maintain stable positioning throughout.
- Avoid using excessive momentum—control the weight through its full range of motion.
- Use a neutral or slightly inward path with the dumbbells based on comfort.
- Breathe in as you lower the weights and exhale as you press them upward.
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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