Triceps · Machine

Smith Machine Close-Grip Bench Press

Lock the bar path and hammer your triceps with a narrow grip.

Smith Machine Close-Grip Bench Press exercise demonstration
TricepsSecondary: ChestMachine

How to do it

  1. Lie on a flat bench under the Smith bar and grip it about shoulder-width.
  2. Unrack and lower the bar to your lower chest with elbows tucked.
  3. Keep your elbows close to your body the whole way down.
  4. Press back up to lockout and squeeze your triceps.

The one cue that matters

Keep your elbows tucked in, not flared, so the triceps take the load over the chest.

Muscles worked

The Smith Machine Close-Grip Bench Press is a Triceps-first movement, with Chest working as the supporting cast. Track it consistently and you'll see exactly how it feeds your triceps volume for the week.

FAQ

What muscles does the Smith Machine Close-Grip Bench Press work?

The Smith Machine Close-Grip Bench Press primarily works the Triceps with Chest assisting.

How heavy should I go?

Pick a weight where you finish each set with 1 to 2 clean reps left in the tank. Own the top of your rep range before adding weight.

How many sets and reps of Smith Machine Close-Grip Bench Press?

For most lifters 3 to 4 working sets. Pick the rep range that fits your goal and progress the load when the top of the range feels owned.

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