Barbell Reverse Grip Incline Bench Press

Target your upper chest and triceps with the Barbell Reverse Grip Incline Bench Press.

Intermediate
Compound
Push
1 min per set2 min rest

Description

This exercise targets the upper chest and triceps by pushing a barbell upwards while lying on an incline bench, using a reverse grip.

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How to Do Barbell Reverse Grip Incline Bench Press

  1. 1
    Setup

    Adjust an incline bench to 30-45 degrees and load a barbell. Lie back on the bench with your eyes directly under the bar.

  2. 2
    Setup

    Grip the barbell with a supinated (reverse) grip, slightly narrower than shoulder-width apart, so your palms face towards your head.

  3. 3

    Unrack the bar and hold it directly above your upper chest with your elbows slightly bent, taking a deep breath before you begin.

  4. 4

    Lower the barbell slowly and with control towards your upper chest, allowing your elbows to tuck close to your body throughout the descent.

  5. 5

    As the bar lightly touches your upper chest, exhale and powerfully press the barbell back up to the starting position by contracting your chest and triceps.

  6. 6

    Maintain control throughout the entire movement, ensuring a slight bend in your elbows at the top to keep continuous tension on the target muscles.

Tips

  • Focus on squeezing your upper chest at the top of the movement to maximize muscle activation and achieve a full contraction.
  • Keep your wrists straight and strong throughout the entire lift to prevent injury and maintain a stable, secure grip on the barbell.
  • Initiate the press by driving your feet firmly into the floor, utilizing leg drive to assist in pushing the weight up more effectively.
  • Ensure your shoulder blades are slightly retracted and depressed on the bench to provide a stable base and protect your shoulder joints.

Common Mistakes

  • ×Flaring elbows out too wide puts undue stress on the shoulder joint; instead, keep your elbows tucked closer to your body to better engage the upper chest and triceps.
  • ×Bouncing the bar off the chest reduces tension and risks injury; control the eccentric (lowering) phase and pause briefly before pressing up.
  • ×Using a grip that is too wide or too narrow can strain wrists or shoulders; find a grip slightly narrower than shoulder-width that feels comfortable and stable.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What muscles does Barbell Reverse Grip Incline Bench Press work?
Barbell Reverse Grip Incline Bench Press primarily targets Pectoralis Major Clavicular Head. Secondary muscles include Deltoid Anterior, Triceps Brachii.
Is Barbell Reverse Grip Incline Bench Press good for beginners?
Barbell Reverse Grip Incline Bench Press is rated intermediate. Beginners can still attempt it with lighter weight and careful form, but it's best to master easier variations first.
What equipment do I need for Barbell Reverse Grip Incline Bench Press?
You need Barbell to perform Barbell Reverse Grip Incline Bench Press. If you don't have this equipment, look for variations that target the same muscles with what you have available.
What are the best tips for Barbell Reverse Grip Incline Bench Press?
Focus on squeezing your upper chest at the top of the movement to maximize muscle activation and achieve a full contraction. Keep your wrists straight and strong throughout the entire lift to prevent injury and maintain a stable, secure grip on the barbell. Initiate the press by driving your feet firmly into the floor, utilizing leg drive to assist in pushing the weight up more effectively. Ensure your shoulder blades are slightly retracted and depressed on the bench to provide a stable base and protect your shoulder joints.
What are common mistakes when doing Barbell Reverse Grip Incline Bench Press?
Flaring elbows out too wide puts undue stress on the shoulder joint; instead, keep your elbows tucked closer to your body to better engage the upper chest and triceps. Bouncing the bar off the chest reduces tension and risks injury; control the eccentric (lowering) phase and pause briefly before pressing up. Using a grip that is too wide or too narrow can strain wrists or shoulders; find a grip slightly narrower than shoulder-width that feels comfortable and stable.

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Barbell Reverse Grip Incline Bench Press

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