Straight Bar Dip
Level
intermediate
Force
push
Mechanic
compound
Equipment
pull up bar Category
strength Secondary Muscles
A compound pressing movement performed with a straight bar, requiring significant upper body strength to lift your body weight.
Instructions
- Grip a straight bar (such as a pull-up bar used horizontally) with both hands positioned at shoulder-width apart.
- Using an overhand grip (palms facing away), suspend your body below the bar with your arms fully extended.
- Maintain an upright torso and engage your core throughout the movement.
- Bend your elbows and lower your body in a controlled manner until your elbows reach approximately 90 degrees.
- Reverse the movement by pressing through your hands and extending your elbows to return to the starting position.
- Hold the top position briefly and squeeze your triceps.
- Repeat for the prescribed number of repetitions.
Tips
- This movement can be modified using resistance bands or an assisted dip machine if needed.
- Maintain an upright torso to maximize triceps involvement.
- Lower yourself under control to maximize the eccentric (lengthening) phase.
- For additional resistance, wear a weighted belt around your waist.
- Progress from knee-assisted or band-assisted variations before attempting unassisted dips.
- Ensure your shoulders are healthy before attempting this advanced movement.
- This is an excellent exercise for building triceps and pressing strength.
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 |
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