How to do a Machine Incline Chest Press

The Machine Incline Chest Press is a beginner machine exercise that works your chest, with help from your shoulders and triceps.

Machine Incline Chest Press demonstration
Machine Incline Chest Press form demo

How to do a Machine Incline Chest Press, step by step

  1. Adjust the seat and backrest of the leverage machine to a comfortable position.
  2. Sit on the machine with your back against the backrest and your feet flat on the floor.
  3. Grasp the handles with an overhand grip and position your hands slightly wider than shoulder-width apart.
  4. Push the handles forward and away from your body until your arms are fully extended.
  5. Pause for a moment, then slowly bend your elbows and lower the handles back towards your chest.
  6. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

Muscles worked

Target musclesChest
Secondary musclesShoulders Triceps
EquipmentMachine
DifficultyBeginner

Common mistakes

Sets and reps by goal

GoalSets x reps
Strength4-6 sets x 3-6 reps
Muscle growth3-4 sets x 8-12 reps
Endurance2-3 sets x 15-20 reps
Power3-5 sets x 3-5 reps

Alternatives, progressions and regressions

Similar exercises

More exercises for the same muscles

Frequently asked questions

What muscles does the Machine Incline Chest Press work?

The Machine Incline Chest Press mainly works your chest. It also works your shoulders and triceps.

Is the Machine Incline Chest Press good for beginners?

Yes. The Machine Incline Chest Press is a beginner-friendly exercise. Start with a light load or no load, learn the movement first and add weight gradually.

How many sets and reps of the Machine Incline Chest Press should I do?

A good starting point is 4-6 sets x 3-6 reps for strength, 3-4 sets x 8-12 reps for muscle growth and 2-3 sets x 15-20 reps for endurance. Rest 1 to 3 minutes between sets and add weight when you reach the top of the rep range with good form.

What can I do instead of the Machine Incline Chest Press?

Good alternatives are Pec Deck (Machine Fly), Barbell Bench Press and Barbell Incline Bench Press.

Put it in a workout plan

Track your Machine Incline Chest Press in UltraFit360

Log sets and reps, see your previous weights and let the app build your program. Free on iOS and Android.