Chest dip

The chest dip is a bodyweight exercise performed on parallel bars or on a pull-up and dip station. It targets the chest, triceps, and shoulders. Dips with a chest focus are usually performed with the torso leaning forward and the elbows angled out from the torso. Dips can be performed for low reps for strength or higher reps for muscle growth.

Benefits

Builds muscle and strength in the chest, as well as the triceps and shoulders
Can add extra weight with a dip belt, dumbbell, or chain
Serious upper-body training with minimal equipment

Type: Strength
Main Muscle Worked: Chest
Equipment: Other
Level: Intermediate

9

Average

Chest dip Images

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Chest dip Instructions

For this exercise you will need access to parallel bars. To get yourself into the starting position, hold your body at arms length (arms locked) above the bars.
While breathing in, lower yourself slowly with your torso leaning forward around 30 degrees or so and your elbows flared out slightly until you feel a slight stretch in the chest.
Once you feel the stretch, use your chest to bring your body back to the starting position as you breathe out. Tip: Remember to squeeze the chest at the top of the movement for a second.
Repeat the movement for the prescribed amount of repetitions.

Variations:

If you are new at this exercise and do not have the strength to perform it, use a dip assist machine if available. These machines use weight to help you push your bodyweight.

Otherwise, a spotter holding your legs can help.

More advanced lifters can add weight to the exercise by using a weight belt that allows the addition of weighted plates.