Lying Cable Chest Press

a.k.a. Freemotion Chest Press

Differentiation: Mechanics

This variation of a Chest Press is unique. Here is how: you use a cable machine | instead of dumbbells | or an Olympic bar | which is an unusual way of performing a chest press. Using a machine offers a more controlled movement. This exercise offers a good way to target your entire chest.


Starting Position

To get into starting position, do this...

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1) Optionally, it helps to use a partner to perform this exercise, but a partner is not required.
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2) Locate two cable machines that are about 10 feet apart.
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3) Position the flat bench between two cable machines that are about 10 feet apart.
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4) Set each pulley at its lowest setting - the one closest to the floor.
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5) Obtain two open end crossover handle attachments.
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6) Clip the attachment onto each pulley hook.
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7) Grasp the handle attachments before you lie down. |If you have a partner, he can hand you the handles after you lie down.
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8) Lie lengthwise on the bench.
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9) Place your feet flat on the floor, wide apart for stability.
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10) Reach back and grasp a handle attachment in each hand from your partner.
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11) Hold the handles at chest height - with your elbows bent.
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12) ...with your palms facing each other.

Main Mechanics

Once in starting position, do this...

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1) This is the starting position.
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2) Exhale while you push the handles straight up above your chest,
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3) ...until your arms are fully extended.
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4) and bring them close together.
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5) Hold this position for a count of one second.
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6) Then, inhale while you gradually allow the cables to retract...
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7) ...until your elbows are bent and the handles again reach chest level.
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8) Repeat reps for a full set.


Proper Form

Pay special attention to following proper form by...

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Be sure to maintain control of the handle attachments. Do not allow the handles to tilt forward or backwards. Keep your arms perpendicular to the floor.
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Keep your wrists straight and tight. If you compromise the form of your wrists, you will be at a high and unnecessary risk of injury.
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Press your shoulder blades firmly into the bench while pushing up each rep.
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Keep your elbows flared outward.


Gear Advice

For your hands, we encourage you to order the Harbinger 1250 Training Grip WristWrap Glove or use weightlifting chalk instead of wearing a glove.

Gear You'll Need

In Gym Gear Needed

Gear Type Gear
Cable Attachment Double D Handle Cable Attachment

Video

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Appearing in the Video

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Tip

Focus most stress on your shoulder blades when extending your arms.

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