Appears in642 Workouts*

Dumbbell Decline Hammer Press

Target your lower chest with this decline variation. Hammer grip reduces shoulder stress while building muscle.

The Dumbbell Decline Hammer Press is a compound exercise that mainly works the chest and triceps, with help from the shoulders and back. You'll need: decline bench or dumbbells.

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Required Equipment

Decline Bench
Decline Bench
Dumbbells
Dumbbells

Dumbbell Decline Hammer Press Muscles Worked

Primary

Upper Chest (pectoralis major, clavicular head); Triceps (triceps brachii)

Secondary

Front Shoulder (anterior deltoid); Lats (latissimus dorsi)

How to do the Dumbbell Decline Hammer Press

Dumbbell Decline Hammer Press Instructions

  • Decline bench

Positioning:

  1. Set the decline bench to a comfortable angle (typically between 15-30 degrees).

  2. Lie back on the bench with your feet secured at the bottom end to prevent slipping.

  3. Hold a dumbbell in each hand, resting them on your thighs.

  4. Once you are stable, lift the dumbbells up to shoulder height, with your palms facing each other (hammer grip).

Movement:

  1. Starting Position: Ensure that your back is flat against the bench and your shoulders are retracted. Your arms should be bent at the elbows, holding the dumbbells at shoulder level.

  2. Pressing Movement: Push the dumbbells upward. As you press, focus on keeping your palms facing each other and engaging your chest, shoulders, and arms.

  3. End Position: Extend your arms fully but do not lock your elbows. The dumbbells should be directly above your shoulders.

  4. Lowering Movement: Slowly lower the dumbbells back to the starting position at shoulder height, maintaining control throughout the motion.

  5. Repetitions: Perform 8-12 repetitions, ensuring good form and control.

Tips:

  • Keep your core engaged to stabilize your body throughout the exercise.

  • Avoid arching your back; use your legs to help secure your position on the bench.

  • Start with lighter weights to master the form before increasing the weight.

Dumbbell Decline Hammer Press FAQs

What muscles does the Dumbbell Decline Hammer Press work?

The Dumbbell Decline Hammer Press mainly works the chest and triceps, with help from the shoulders and back. The main muscles are the pectoralis major and triceps brachii.

What equipment do you need for the Dumbbell Decline Hammer Press?

Decline bench or dumbbells.

Is the Dumbbell Decline Hammer Press a compound exercise?

Yes. It's a compound movement, meaning it trains several muscle groups at once rather than isolating one.

What workout day should the Dumbbell Decline Hammer Press go on?

It belongs on push day in a push/pull/legs routine.

What are some Dumbbell Decline Hammer Press variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the Band Incline Hammer Press, Barbell Decline Bench Press, Dumbbell 2-Point Bench Press and Dumbbell Incline Neutral-Grip Chest Press.

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