Machine Dips
Level
intermediate
Force
push
Mechanic
compound
Equipment
dip machine Category
strength Primary Muscles
A compound pressing exercise performed on a machine that primarily targets the triceps while engaging the chest and shoulders.
Instructions
- Sit securely in the dip machine with your back against the backrest and select an appropriate weight.
- Firmly grasp the handles with both hands at chest level, keeping your elbows tucked close to your sides.
- Your elbows should be bent at approximately 90 degrees in the starting position.
- Press downward by extending your arms, contracting your triceps as you exhale.
- Lower the weight in a controlled manner until your elbows reach approximately 90 degrees again.
- Maintain a slight bend in your elbows at the bottom to keep tension on the triceps.
- Slowly return to the starting position and repeat for the prescribed number of repetitions.
Tips
- Keep your elbows tucked close to your body throughout the entire movement to maximize triceps activation.
- Avoid leaning forward excessively; maintain an upright posture against the backrest.
- Focus on triceps contraction rather than using momentum to drive the movement.
- Maintain a controlled tempo, especially during the lowering phase.
- Avoid hyperextending your elbows at the bottom of the movement.
- Start with lighter weight to perfect your form before increasing resistance.
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 | 17 kg | 9 kg |
| Build muscle | 3 | 10 reps | 15 kg | 8 kg |
| Build endurance | 3 | 14 reps | 11 kg | 6 kg |
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