Dumbbell Lying Hammer Press
Build chest strength with dumbbell lying hammer presses! Focus on controlled movements for maximum muscle engagement.
The Dumbbell Lying Hammer Press is a compound exercise that mainly works the chest and triceps, with help from the back. You'll need: exercise bench or dumbbells.

Required Equipment


Dumbbell Lying Hammer Press Muscles Worked
Primary
Upper Chest (pectoralis major, clavicular head); Triceps (triceps brachii)
Secondary
Chest (pectoralis major, sternal head); Boxer Muscle (serratus anterior)
Dumbbell Lying Hammer Press Variations and Alternatives
How to do the Dumbbell Lying Hammer Press
A pair of dumbbells (choose a weight that is comfortable for you)
1. Positioning:
Start by lying down on your back on a flat bench. Make sure your head, shoulders, and hips are in contact with the bench.
Your feet should be flat on the floor, roughly shoulder-width apart for stability.
Hold a dumbbell in each hand with a neutral grip (palms facing each other) and position the dumbbells at chest level. Your elbows should be bent at about a 90-degree angle.
Starting Position:
Ensure that your wrists are straight and your arms are firmly gripped around the dumbbells.
Your elbows should be tucked in close to your body.
The Movement:
Inhale deeply as you prepare to press the weights.
Press the dumbbells upward by extending your arms fully but without locking your elbows at the top of the movement.
Keep the movement controlled, ensuring the dumbbells remain parallel to each other at all times.
Hold for a moment at the top of the movement.
Returning to Start:
Slowly lower the dumbbells back to the starting position at chest level while exhaling.
Maintain control throughout the movement and avoid dropping the weights quickly.
Repetitions:
Perform 8 to 12 repetitions for 2 to 4 sets, resting for about 30 to 60 seconds between sets.
Notes:
Focus on using your chest and triceps to perform the movement, keeping your core engaged to stabilize your body.
Ensure you maintain proper form throughout to avoid injury. If you feel discomfort, reduce the weight or stop the exercise.
Cool Down:
After completing your sets, stretch your arms and chest gently to cool down.
Dumbbell Lying Hammer Press FAQs
What muscles does the Dumbbell Lying Hammer Press work?
The Dumbbell Lying Hammer Press mainly works the chest and triceps, with help from the back. The main muscles are the pectoralis major and triceps brachii.
What equipment do you need for the Dumbbell Lying Hammer Press?
Exercise bench or dumbbells.
Is the Dumbbell Lying 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 Lying Hammer Press go on?
It belongs on push day in a push/pull/legs routine.
What are some Dumbbell Lying Hammer Press variations and alternatives?
Similar exercises include the Dumbbell 2-Point Bench Press, Dumbbell 3-Point Bench Press, Dumbbell Chest Glute Bridge Press and Dumbbell Single-Arm Chest Glute Bridge Press.
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