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All chest exercisesChest · Gym

Incline Dumbbell Press

30–45° incline biases the clavicular fibers. Dumbbells allow a deeper stretch.

BeginnerDumbbells + bench3–4 × 8–12
Incline Dumbbell Press demonstration thumbnail — How To PROPERLY Dumbbell Incline Press
Upper chestDumbbells + bench

Incline Dumbbell Press

Demo · Colossus Fitness

Verified Incline Dumbbell Press demonstration by Colossus Fitness. Click to play.

How to do the Incline Dumbbell Press

  1. 1Wrists stacked over elbows
  2. 2Elbows ~60° from torso
  3. 3Squeeze at the top

Benefits of the Incline Dumbbell Press

  • Builds strength and size in the upper chest through a deep, loaded stretch
  • Also trains front delts, triceps as supporting movers
  • Trains each side independently, which can help identify and address side-to-side strength differences
  • Low skill demand — safe to learn early and useful for high-rep volume

Sources

Exercise information is provided for general educational purposes. Choose movements appropriate for your ability level and stop if you experience pain, dizziness, unusual shortness of breath or other concerning symptoms. Seek appropriate medical or fitness guidance when needed.

  1. 1Behm et al. (2016) — Acute effects of stretching on range of motion and performanceApplied Physiology, Nutrition, and Metabolism
  2. 2Schoenfeld, Ogborn & Krieger (2017) — Dose-response of resistance training volume on hypertrophyJournal of Sports Sciences
  3. 3ACSM position stand (2009) — Progression models in resistance training for healthy adultsMedicine & Science in Sports & Exercise
  4. 4Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, 2nd editionU.S. Department of Health and Human Services