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Speed for this exercise

Close-Grip Dumbbell Bench Press

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3sets
8-12reps
90srest
~5.5kcal/min

How to do it

Muscles worked

Primary
TricepsB Triceps
Secondary
ChestShoulders

Secondary muscles help but are not the main target

See the full tier list · Triceps

Feel it right

Where you should feel it, the one cue to remember, and quick fixes when you feel it somewhere else.

You should feel it inBack of arms

A stretch across the chest at the bottom and a strong squeeze as you press; triceps finish the lockout.

Key cue (the coach says it during the set)“Shoulder blades back and down, chest up, then press.”

Tempo · Lower 2 s · pause 1 · press 1 s

Choosing the load: Pick a weight you finish with 1–2 good reps left. 4+ left = too light; form breaks = too heavy.

Feel it somewhere else? Fix it like this

  • Feel it in ShouldersElbows flared too wide and shoulders rolling forward. Tuck elbows to about 45°, keep shoulder blades pinned, lower to mid-chest.
  • Feel it in WristsWrists bent back. Stack the weight over your forearms, knuckles to the ceiling.
  • Barely felt itToo light or too fast. Lower for 3 seconds, pause 1 second at the stretch, and pick a load that leaves only 1–2 reps in the tank.
  • Joint painSharp or joint pain is a stop sign: end this set, lower the weight, shorten the range — if it repeats, switch to an easier variation.

During a workout we ask after the first set where you felt it and give the fix right away — and remember it for next time.

Tips

  • Palms face each other — a joint-friendly grip for wrists and shoulders.
  • Pressing the dumbbells together keeps constant tension on the triceps and inner chest.
  • A joint-friendly alternative to the barbell close-grip press.

Common mistakes

  • Letting the dumbbells drift apart during the rep.
  • Flaring the elbows out wide.

Breathing

Inhale as you lower, exhale as you press up.

Recommended by goal

Build muscle3–4 sets × 8–12 reps · rest 60–90 s
Strength4–5 sets × 4–6 reps · rest 2–3 min
Endurance2–3 sets × 15–20 reps · rest 30–45 s

Variations of this move

Alternatives for the same muscle