Smith Machine Decline Bench Press: How-to, Tips & More

The Smith Machine Decline Bench Press is a beginner compound exercise for your chest. You do it with smith machine and decline bench. It is a good fit when your goal is both strength and muscle growth.

Besides the chest, it also works your triceps and shoulders, so it fits well in a session that trains those muscles together.

Muscles worked

Chest muscle

Chest

Primary

Triceps muscle

Triceps

Secondary

Shoulders muscle

Shoulders

Secondary

How to do the Smith Machine Decline Bench Press

  1. Set a decline bench under the smith machine so the bar lines up with your lower chest.
  2. Unhook the bar with a grip just outside shoulder width.
  3. Lower it to your lower chest.
  4. Press back up and lock out.

Smith Machine Decline Bench Press tips

  • Hook your feet in before you unrack.

Sets and reps

Most lifters do well with 6 to 12 reps per set, and 6 to 12 reps is where this exercise tends to work best. Use a weight that leaves one or two reps in reserve on every set, and add weight once you can complete all your sets at the top of the range. It also works well in a superset with an exercise for the opposite muscles. You can finish with a drop set when you want extra volume.

Equipment

Smith machine, Decline bench

Type

Compound

Smith Machine Decline Bench Press alternatives

More chest exercises

Frequently asked questions

What muscles does the Smith Machine Decline Bench Press work?

The Smith Machine Decline Bench Press mainly works your chest, with help from your triceps and shoulders.

How many sets and reps should I do?

A good starting point is 6 to 12 reps per set, and many lifters get the best results between 6 to 12 reps. Use a weight that leaves one or two reps in reserve.

Is the Smith Machine Decline Bench Press good for beginners?

Yes. The Smith Machine Decline Bench Press is considered beginner and is a good choice if you are new to training. Start light and focus on form.

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

You need smith machine and decline bench.

Smith Machine Decline Bench Press demonstration

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