Bench Dip with legs on bench

Master the Bench Dip with elevated feet to sculpt strong triceps. This bodyweight exercise effectively targets your upper arms and shoulders for increased

Intermediate
Compound
Push
1 min per set2 min rest

Description

A variation of the classic dip exercise, performed using two benches. The user places their hands on one bench and their feet on the other, then lowers and raises their body using their triceps.

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How to Do Bench Dip with legs on bench

  1. 1
    Setup

    Position two sturdy benches parallel to each other, approximately 3-4 feet apart, ensuring they are stable and will not slide. Sit on the edge of one bench and place your hands shoulder-width apart next to your hips, fingers pointing forward or slightly out.

  2. 2
    Setup

    Extend your legs forward and place your heels on the edge of the second bench, keeping your legs straight. Lift your hips off the first bench, supporting your body weight with your hands and heels.

  3. 3

    Inhale as you slowly lower your body by bending your elbows, keeping them pointing straight back and close to your torso. Descend until your upper arms are roughly parallel to the floor or you feel a deep stretch in your triceps and shoulders.

  4. 4

    Exhale and powerfully push through your palms to extend your elbows, raising your body back to the starting position. Focus on squeezing your triceps at the top of the movement.

  5. 5

    Maintain a slight bend in your elbows at the top to keep tension on the triceps and prevent locking out the joint. Control the movement throughout the entire range of motion.

Tips

  • Keep your back close to the bench you are pushing off of throughout the exercise to maximize triceps engagement and reduce strain on your shoulders.
  • To increase difficulty, place a weight plate across your lap, or decrease difficulty by bringing your feet closer to the first bench or placing them on the floor.
  • Focus on the mind-muscle connection with your triceps; consciously contract them during the upward phase to ensure they are driving the movement.
  • Maintain a neutral spine and avoid shrugging your shoulders towards your ears, keeping them depressed and retracted to protect your neck and optimize form.

Common Mistakes

  • ×Flaring elbows out to the sides shifts tension away from the triceps and onto the shoulder joint; keep your elbows tucked in, pointing straight back.
  • ×Not going deep enough limits the range of motion and triceps activation; lower your body until your upper arms are parallel to the floor, or as far as comfort allows without shoulder pain.
  • ×Shrugging the shoulders up towards the ears can cause neck and shoulder strain; actively depress your shoulders away from your ears and maintain a strong, stable upper back.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What muscles does Bench Dip with legs on bench work?
Bench Dip with legs on bench primarily targets Triceps Brachii. Secondary muscles include Deltoid Anterior, Latissimus Dorsi, Levator Scapulae, Pectoralis Major Clavicular Head, Pectoralis Major Sternal Head, Teres Major.
Is Bench Dip with legs on bench good for beginners?
Bench Dip with legs on bench 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 Bench Dip with legs on bench?
You need Body weight to perform Bench Dip with legs on bench. 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 Bench Dip with legs on bench?
Keep your back close to the bench you are pushing off of throughout the exercise to maximize triceps engagement and reduce strain on your shoulders. To increase difficulty, place a weight plate across your lap, or decrease difficulty by bringing your feet closer to the first bench or placing them on the floor. Focus on the mind-muscle connection with your triceps; consciously contract them during the upward phase to ensure they are driving the movement. Maintain a neutral spine and avoid shrugging your shoulders towards your ears, keeping them depressed and retracted to protect your neck and optimize form.
What are common mistakes when doing Bench Dip with legs on bench?
Flaring elbows out to the sides shifts tension away from the triceps and onto the shoulder joint; keep your elbows tucked in, pointing straight back. Not going deep enough limits the range of motion and triceps activation; lower your body until your upper arms are parallel to the floor, or as far as comfort allows without shoulder pain. Shrugging the shoulders up towards the ears can cause neck and shoulder strain; actively depress your shoulders away from your ears and maintain a strong, stable upper back.

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Bench Dip with legs on bench

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