Stacked Plate Bench Press for Greater Pec Activation

This setup is a GREAT way to get the pecs working in a bench press, especially the upper chest. If you're familiar with the Parrillo Arched Bench, this is a rigged up way to do pretty much the exact same thing using a stack of bumper plates.

 



 


 

This setup is going to force your chest to expand by putting a substantial arch in the back with the hips dropped.

This puts the chest in a much better position to activate, reducing the amount of shoulder involvement.

I've got two 45's and a 35 stacked up (they need to be rubberized, non-slip plates). I found this setup to be quite solid on the bench. I didn't feel any slip, slide or wiggle with them.

The CRITICAL thing is to get your upper back/shoulder blades resting on TOP of the top plate surface.

Stacked Plate Bench Press for Greater Pec Activation Bottom

Stacked Plate Bench Press for Greater Pec Activation top

That way gravity is pushing the weight of the dumbbells straight down onto your upper back and there's no diagonal torque.

You're NOT leaning into the plates at angle, which is what would cause them to slide. You'll see my upper torso is pretty much horizontal as I'm pressing.

So with that in mind, don't use too many plates stacked up. This height was perfect for me.

To get into position, start with the dumbbells on your thighs.

Stacked Plate Bench Press for Greater Pec Activation Start

Then pull (or kick up, if heavier) them up and back, similar to how you'd get into position for an incline press, only this is actually a bit easier, since they're not going as high.

Stacked Plate Bench Press for Greater Pec Activation Lie Back

Stacked Plate Bench Press for Greater Pec Activation Kick Up

Then get that arch in the back and press from there. Go for a full range of motion on these to take advantage of the puffed up chest (which puts the pecs on a great stretch at the bottom).

When you're done, set them back on your thighs, then on the ground. Don't drop the dumbbells from this height.

Again, use grippy bumper plates and make sure your upper back is on TOP of the plates, not pushing backwards.

You can also utilize this setup with the Bottom Start Dumbbell Bench Press technique.

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Want more unique and challenging exercises to work your entire body with simple equipment? All you need is just a barbell, dumbbells and a bench. Check out The Best Home Gym Exercises You've Never Heard Of!

 

 

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