Incline Dumbbell Press
The incline dumbbell press targets the upper chest fibers that the flat bench underserves. Set the bench to 30-45 degrees, press dumbbells from shoulder level to lockout, and control the descent.
How to Perform
Set the bench to 30-45 degrees — steeper angles shift more work to the shoulders.
Start with dumbbells at shoulder height, palms facing forward.
Press up and slightly inward so the dumbbells nearly touch at the top.
Lower slowly with elbows at 45 degrees — feel the stretch across your upper chest.
Keep your back flat against the bench and feet planted firmly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Setting the incline too steep (60+ degrees), turning it into a shoulder press.
Using momentum to swing the weights up instead of pressing with control.
Not lowering the dumbbells deep enough to get a full stretch.
Letting the dumbbells drift forward over your face instead of pressing over your chest.
Muscle Activation
Variations
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