Smith Machine Decline Bench Press

Also known as: Smith Decline Bench Press, Decline Bench Press (Smith Machine)

Lie on a decline bench and press a fixed bar upward in a controlled arc to train the chest (emphasis on the lower pectorals) and assist with triceps drive.

How to do the Smith Machine Decline Bench Press#

  1. Set up on a decline bench with your feet secured and the Smith bar positioned above your chest.
  2. Unlatch the bar and extend your arms so the bar is held directly over your chest.
  3. Draw your shoulder blades together and down to create a stable upper-body base, keeping elbows at a moderate tuck.
  4. Inhale and lower the bar slowly to the middle of your chest with control.
  5. Exhale and press the bar back up toward the start until your arms are near straight, then re-rack or repeat.

Muscles worked#

Common mistakes#

Track the Smith Machine Decline Bench Press in Gript: your previous sets in view while you train, records detected automatically, and an estimated 1RM chart from every hard set.

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Frequently asked questions#

What muscles does the Smith Machine Decline Bench Press work?

The Smith Machine Decline Bench Press primarily works the chest. The triceps, front delts assist as secondary muscles — they stabilise the movement and take over when the main target fatigues. If you feel it mostly in the triceps, front delts, lighten the load and slow the lowering phase.

What equipment do I need for the Smith Machine Decline Bench Press?

The Smith Machine Decline Bench Press needs the following: Smith machine, Bench. Nothing beyond that is required to run the movement as described above.

Is the Smith Machine Decline Bench Press suitable for beginners?

Yes. The Smith Machine Decline Bench Press is rated beginner: the technique is quick to pick up and forgiving when a rep goes slightly off. Start light and add weight once the form repeats itself without you thinking about it.

What are good alternatives to the Smith Machine Decline Bench Press?

Around the World, Barbell Bench Press, Cable Bench Press all train the same primary muscles as the Smith Machine Decline Bench Press. Pick whichever one matches the equipment in front of you.