Exercises

Incline chest press machine

Press upward and forward from a supported inclined position. This machine variation emphasizes the upper chest with help from the front delts and triceps.

Incline chest press machine with a reclined supported torso, planted feet and handles pressed above the upper chest.

Machine · Inclined backrest

Source: Life Fitness · Incline Chest Press

Step by step

  1. Choose an incline chest press machine and adjust its seat so the starting handles align near your upper chest.
  2. Keep your head, upper back and hips supported, plant both feet and grip the handles with straight wrists.
  3. Brace your torso and press along the machine's upward-forward path without lifting away from the backrest.
  4. Finish with softly extended elbows and return the handles slowly to a comfortable starting depth.
  5. Set the resistance down with control and follow the machine's instructions when leaving the seat.

Common mistakes

  • Arching the lower back or lifting the hips away from the seat.
  • Setting the handles too high like a shoulder press or lowering beyond a comfortable range.

Anatomy and technique: the references below. Region boundaries and movement diagrams are schematic. Exercise images are AI-generated illustrations.