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Incorporating the chest press machine into your workout routine

Tanisha Sharma | Aug 9 2024
Incorporating the chest press machine into your workout routine

Are you looking to develop a chest that will make you proud? Well, this machine can be an addition to your workout routine. The chest press machine is straightforward to use and helps in targeting the right chest muscles. In this blog, learn how to work out using a chest press machine, including how to do the machine incline chest press and tips to help in getting that powerful chest at the gym.

What is Chest Press Machine?

The chest press machine is used to press weights forward while one is in a seated position. Its actions are similar to the bench press; however, there is additional support and stability that can make it a useful tool for beginners and seasoned lifters alike.

How Does It Work?

As you work out on the chest press machine, you press the handles or bar off from the chest. The machine design keeps the body stable, so all your effort is applied to the movement and not to balance the weights. This is quite helpful where getting the correct form is concerned in trying to prevent injuries.

How to Use the Chest Press Machine?

Utilizing the chest press machine is pretty easy. Here's a step-by-step process:

1. Adjust the seat: The seat height should be adjusted so that when you sit, the handles have to be chest high. It is important for form.
2. Set the weight: You must select a weight by which you will be challenged but at which you can complete sets having good form. If you're new to the machine, then start with a lightweight.
3. Grip the Handles: Grasp the handles with both hands. Your palms should be towards the floor.
4. Push the Handles: This is done by pushing the handles forward until the arms are extended fully. The user needs to keep his back and shoulders against the seat.
5. Return Slowly: The handles are returned slowly to the starting position without letting the weights slam down
6. Repeat: The above steps are repeated for the number of repetitions as required.
Normally, 8-12 reps per set builds muscle well.

Benefits of Chest Press Machine

1. Controlled Movement: The machine guides your movement, which helps perform the exercise correctly. This is especially useful for beginners who are learning proper techniques.
2. Improved Stability: Unlike free weights, the machine provides stability, which helps you focus on the chest muscles without worrying about balancing the weight.
3. Easy to adjust: You can also easily manipulate the settings on this machine, so you can easily adjust the weight and the position of the seat. In a way, it would be easier for you to customize your workout accordingly.
4. Work for Any Level: Whether you're a raw beginner or a seasoned lifter, the chest press machine adjusts to your ability.

Machine Incline Chest Press

This variation targets the upper chest. Here's how to do it:

  • Adjust the Bench: Make an incline on the bench, usually at an angle between 30 to 45 degrees. This adjustment puts more focus on the upper part of your chest.
  • Do the Same Thing: Do the same motion as you would while working on a regular chest press machine; however, now you are pressing at an angle, which helps hit the upper chest muscles a bit more.
  • Get That Upper Chest: The incline is awesome for hitting up that upper chest, which can look nice and appealing, visually speaking, when you get it to pop.

Tips for a Great Chest Workout in the Gym

Follow these tips to bring out the most in your chest workouts in the gym:

  • Warm-up: Begin by getting your muscles ready with a warm-up. It'll get your muscles ready to dive into the workout. Light cardio and dynamic stretches will make sure that your blood is flowing well and that you are nice and limber.
  • Good Form: Keep your focus on proper form to avoid injuries and ensure that the intended muscles are worked out maximally. The back should be straight against the seat, and there should be no arching too much at your back.
  • Rest and Recover: Allow your muscles time to recover after workouts. Good rest is essential for the growth of the muscles and, in general, for health. Allow for at least 48 hours before repeating the same muscle workout.
  • Be consistent: It is the way forward and the determinant of progress. Keep faithful to your workout schedule and gradually add weights and intensity. Progress must be noted over some time.

Sample Chest Workout Routine

Below is a simple routine that includes a chest workout in the gym and the machine exercise among others:

  • Warm-up: 5-10 minutes of light cardio, such as jogging or cycling, then dynamic stretches targeting the chest and shoulders.
  • Machine Chest Press: Do 3 sets of 10-12 reps, changing the seat setting for the appropriate weight to use.
  • Machine Incline Chest Press: Do 3 sets of 10-12 reps. Adjust the bench at an angle to engage the upper chest.
  • Dumbbell Bench Press: 3 sets of 8-10 reps. Free weights will help balance out any imbalances by using more stabilizer muscles.

Conclusion

One such tool to develop strength and size in the chest is through the use of a chest press machine. Using the regular chest press machine combined with the machine incline chest press enables one to hit different parts of the chest for overall development. Keep good form, mix machines with free weights, and be consistent. Follow these tips and you will be well on your way to a stronger and more defined chest. Ready to elevate your chest workout? Join MultiFit Gym and master the chest press machine with guidance from our expert trainers. Achieve your fitness goals today