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Chest Dip: starting position Chest Dip: end position

Dips · Chest

Chest Dip

A dips exercise that works the chest. Intermediate level, using bodyweight.

IntermediateBodyweightHomeParkGym

Muscles worked

PrimaryChest
SecondaryShoulders, Triceps

Lower chest, triceps and front delts.

Setup and loading

Parallel bars slightly wider than your shoulders.

How to do the chest dip step by step

  1. Support yourself on the bars with straight arms.
  2. Lean your torso forward about 30 degrees and flare your elbows slightly.
  3. Lower until you feel a stretch in your chest, then press up.

Form cues

  • Torso leaning forward
  • Controlled lowering

Common mistakes

  • Going too deep when your shoulder hurts
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Sets and reps for your goal

Hypertrophy

3-4 x 8-12 · rest 60-90 s

3-4 sets of 6-12 reps (up to 15-20 on isolation exercises) at 65-80% of your max. Rest 1 to 2 minutes.

Get close to failure (0-3 reps in reserve) and control the lowering for 2-3 seconds. Accumulate 10-20 sets per muscle per week.

Max Strength

4-5 x 3-6 · rest 2-3 min

3-6 sets of 1-6 reps at 80-90% of your max (1RM). Rest 2 to 5 minutes.

Leave 1-3 reps in reserve. If your technique breaks down, lower the weight: strength is built with good reps.

A guide for healthy adults. Adjust the load to your level and see a professional if you have an injury.

Check your form

Film yourself from the side or ask someone to watch, then tick what you get right.

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Sports it suits

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Variations and similar exercises

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