Atlas
Machine Chest Press: starting position Machine Chest Press: end position

Vertical Pull · Chest

Machine Chest Press

A vertical pull exercise that works the chest. Beginner level, using machine.

BeginnerMachineGym

Muscles worked

PrimaryChest
SecondaryShoulders, Triceps

Chest and triceps.

Setup and loading

Use the foot lever to position the handles.

How to do the machine chest press step by step

  1. Sit down and grab the handles with your palms facing down.
  2. Press until your arms are straight.
  3. Return slowly without releasing the tension.

Form cues

  • Back against the pad
  • Elbows at 45 degrees

Common mistakes

  • Snapping into lockout
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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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Variations and similar exercises

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