Incline Dumbbell Bench Press


Differentiation: Mechanics

This variation of an Incline Press is unique. Here is how: you use dumbbells. Using dumbbells ensures that each side of your chest pushes the same amount of weight. Using equal weight adds to the symmetry of your chest.


Starting Position

To get into starting position, do this...

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1) Locate a movable incline bench.
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2) Set the incline bench to a 45-degree angle.
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3) Obtain two dumbbells.
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4) While holding a dumbbell in each hand, sit on the bench.
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5) Lie back on the incline bench with your back flat against the pad.
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6) Place your feet flat on the floor, shoulder-width apart.
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7) Raise the dumbbells up to shoulder level one at a time.
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8) For heavier weight, rest the dumbbells on the top of your thighs about 2 inches from your knee until ready to begin. You can use your thigh to help push each dumbbell up - one at a time.
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9) Once the dumbbells are at shoulder height, rotate your wrists so that your palms are facing forward.

Main Mechanics

Once in starting position, do this...

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1) This is the starting position.
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2) Exhale while pushing the dumbbells upward
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3) ...until your arms are fully extending over your shoulders.
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4) At the top of the movement, lock your arms and hold this position for a count of one second.
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5) Then, gradually lower the dumbbells using a controlled movement.
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6) ...until the dumbbells reach shoulder level.
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7) Repeat reps for a full set.
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8) When your set is complete, lower each dumbbell to your thigh and then to the floor.


Proper Form

Pay special attention to following proper form by...

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Keep your butt on the bench's seat.
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Be sure to maintain control of the dumbbells. Do not allow the dumbbells to tilt forward or backwards. Keep your arms perpendicular to the floor.
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Keep your wrists straight and tight. If you compromise the form of your wrists, you will be at a high and unnecessary risk of injury.
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Press your shoulder blades firmly into the bench while pushing up each rep.
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Keep your elbows flared outward.


Gear Advice

To perform this exercise, you will need access to dumbbells. If you want to perform this exercise at home, we have listed a link below to the Bowflex SelectTech Dumbbell Set - which you can order from Amazon dot com. For your hands, we encourage you to order the Harbinger 1250 Training Grip WristWrap Glove or use weightlifting chalk instead of wearing a glove.

Gear You'll Need

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