Dumbbell incline press

Purpose

• incline press with increased range of motion compared to barbell
• allows wrist rotation for optimal joint positioning
• excellent upper chest and anterior deltoid builder

Execution

Set the bench to a 30-45 degree incline. Sit with dumbbells resting on your thighs. Lie back while simultaneously bringing the dumbbells to the sides of your upper chest. Position dumbbells at shoulder width with palms facing forward or slightly angled inward.

• lower the dumbbells with control toward the sides of your upper chest
• allow for a deeper stretch at the bottom than possible with a barbell
• pause briefly in the stretched position to maximize tension
• press the dumbbells back up and slightly inward
• control the negative on the way down

As the weight increases, use your legs to help kick the dumbbells into position. Benefits from higher rep ranges compared to barbell incline press. When the set gets heavy, bang out a few more reps in the bottom half to milk the stretched position.