Incline Dumbbell Bench Press

Bench inclined about 30-45 degrees, head above the hips; press the dumbbells up over the upper chest, lower them with control to shoulder level.

Incline Dumbbell Bench Press, illustrated

How to do it

Setup

Bench at 30–45°, bells over the upper chest, blades pinched, feet planted.

Steps

  1. Lower the bells to the sides of the upper chest.
  2. Keep the elbows about 45° from the body.
  3. Press up and slightly together to lockout.

Common mistakes

Bench too steep: over 45° the front delts take the set; keep the incline moderate. Bells drifting toward the belly: they stay over the UPPER chest. Hips lifting: keep contact with the bench.

Breathing

Inhale down, exhale on the press.