Incline Cable Chest Press
An incline press on a bench set between two low cable pulleys, pressing the handles up and together. The cables keep tension on the upper chest through the whole range, including the top where dumbbells go slack.
Primary muscles
- Chest (Pectoralis Major)
Secondary muscles
- Front Delts
- Triceps
- Sets
- 3–4
- Reps
- 10–15
- Rest
- 60–90s
How to perform
Main muscles working (thicker lines)
Starting position
Set an incline bench to about 30 degrees between two low pulleys and lie back holding a handle in each hand beside your upper chest, elbows bent about 90 degrees and roughly 45 degrees from your torso.
Press the handles up and slightly together over your upper chest.
Pause at full extension without letting the handles touch.
Lower under control back to chest level, keeping tension on the cables.
Keep the shoulder blades pinned to the bench throughout.
Breathing: Exhale as you press, inhale on the way down.
Coaching tips
Chest up, shoulders down
Press up and in
Control the return
Common mistakes
Bench set so steep it becomes a shoulder press
Letting the cables pull the elbows too far back
Losing tension at the bottom
Safety notes
Take the handles before you lie back and return them one at a time after the set.
This information is general fitness guidance, not medical advice. Stop if you feel pain and consult a qualified professional.