Machine Iso-Lateral Chest Press
Level
beginner
Force
push
Mechanic
compound
Equipment
chest press machine Category
strength Primary Muscles
A unilateral chest pressing exercise on an iso-lateral machine that allows each side of the chest to work independently for balanced strength development.
Instructions
- Sit in the iso-lateral chest press machine with your back against the pad, feet firmly on the floor.
- Grasp each handle independently with your hands at chest level, elbows bent at approximately 90 degrees.
- Push one arm forward while the other arm can remain stationary or return slightly, allowing for independent movement.
- Extend your arm fully while maintaining a slight bend in the elbow.
- Pause briefly at the end of the pressing motion, then slowly return to the starting position.
- Repeat on both sides for the prescribed number of repetitions per side.
- Perform all repetitions on one side before switching, or alternate sides as desired.
Tips
- The independent arm movement helps identify and correct strength imbalances between sides.
- Keep your back flat against the pad throughout the entire movement.
- Focus on smooth, controlled motion rather than driving the weight explosively.
- Maintain equal pressure through both sides even though one arm works at a time.
- Avoid rotating your torso; keep your body stable and centered.
- Adjust the weight to ensure you can perform the exercise with proper form on both sides.
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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