Dumbbell Bench Press

Press the dumbbells up from chest level until the arms are straight, then lower them with control to a light stretch.

How to do it

Setup

Lie on the bench, dumbbells over the chest, blades pinched, feet planted.

Steps

Lower the bells to the sides of the chest, elbows about 45°.
Stretch at the bottom without losing the blade pinch.
Press up and slightly together to lockout.

Common mistakes

Clanging the bells hard at the top: stop short; keep tension. Uneven pressing: the weaker side sets the weight. Feet dancing: plant them and drive.

Breathing

Inhale down, exhale on the press.