Atlas
Incline Dumbbell Fly: starting position Incline Dumbbell Fly: end position

Flyes · Chest

Incline Dumbbell Fly

A flyes exercise that works the chest. Beginner level, using dumbbells.

BeginnerDumbbellsGymHome

Muscles worked

PrimaryChest
SecondaryShoulders

Upper chest.

Setup and loading

Bench at no more than 30 degrees.

How to do the incline dumbbell fly step by step

  1. Lie on a bench inclined to about 30 degrees with the dumbbells over your chest.
  2. Open your arms in an arc with your elbows slightly bent.
  3. Bring them back together at the top, squeezing your chest.

Form cues

  • Elbows fixed
  • Controlled lowering

Common mistakes

  • Going too low
  • Turning it into a press
Advertisement

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.

0 of 2

Sports it suits

Gear for this exercise

  • Adjustable dumbbellsSave space and replace a whole dumbbell rack at home.

As an Amazon Associate, Muscle Atlas earns from qualifying purchases.

Variations and similar exercises

Advertisement