Exercise library · Chest
Incline Barbell Bench Press.
Compound upper body exercise targeting the upper chest, with secondary involvement from the front deltoids and triceps.
Also known as: Incline Bench Press, Incline BB Bench, Incline Bench
IntermediateBarbell · Incline bench
The numbers
Sets
3–5
Reps
5–10
Rest
90–180 s
The play-by-play
How to do it.
- Step 01
Lie on an incline bench set at 30-45 degrees.
- Step 02
Grip the barbell slightly wider than shoulder-width apart.
- Step 03
Unrack the bar and lower it slowly to your upper chest.
- Step 04
Keep your elbows slightly tucked, not flared out.
- Step 05
Press the barbell back up to the starting position.
- Step 06
Fully extend your arms without locking your elbows.
What separates good from great
Pro cues.
Maintain a slight arch in your lower back for stability.
Control the descent to maximize muscle tension.
Focus on driving the bar up using your upper chest.
Common questions
Questions, answered.
- What is the Incline Barbell Bench Press?
- Compound upper body exercise targeting the upper chest, with secondary involvement from the front deltoids and triceps.
- What muscles does the Incline Barbell Bench Press work?
- The Incline Barbell Bench Press primarily works your upper chest. It also recruits your front delts and triceps as secondary movers.
- What equipment do I need for the Incline Barbell Bench Press?
- You need a barbell and an incline bench to perform the Incline Barbell Bench Press.
- How many sets and reps should I do for the Incline Barbell Bench Press?
- A typical prescription for the Incline Barbell Bench Press is 3–5 sets of 5–10 reps. Rest about 90–180 seconds between sets.
- Is the Incline Barbell Bench Press good for beginners?
- The Incline Barbell Bench Press is best suited to intermediate lifters. Beginners can do it with light weight and close attention to form before progressing.
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