Chest Exercise · Barbell
The reverse grip decline bench press combines an underhand grip with a downward bench angle, an unusual combination that emphasizes the lower and inner chest while reducing shoulder strain for some lifters. It's not a common variation, so start light until the bar path feels natural. Keep the elbows tracking down toward the hips rather than flaring wide.
How to Do the Barbell Reverse Grip Decline Bench Press
- Get positioned on a decline bench with your feet locked in and your head lower than your hips.
- Take hold of the bar with a reverse (underhand) grip, hands a bit wider than shoulder width.
- Lift the bar off the rack and bring it down toward your chest slowly, keeping your elbows tucked close.
- Hold briefly once it reaches your chest, then drive it back up to the starting position.
- Continue for the set reps, taking care to lower with control and reset your posture between each rep.
Calorie Burn & Set Tracker
Muscles Worked
The Barbell Reverse Grip Decline Bench Press primarily targets the Pectorals, with Triceps as the primary synergist muscle group, along with the Shoulders.
More Chest Exercises
Archer Push Up
Assisted Chest Dip (kneeling)
Assisted Seated Pectoralis Major Stretch With Stability Ball
Assisted Wide-Grip Chest Dip (kneeling)
Band Bench Press
Band One Arm Twisting Chest Press
More Pectorals Exercises
Barbell Bench Press
Barbell Decline Bench Press
Barbell Decline Pullover
Barbell Decline Wide-Grip Press
Barbell Front Raise And Pullover
Barbell Guillotine Bench Press
Equipment Alternatives
Don't have barbell? These target the same pectorals with different equipment.
Archer Push Up
Assisted Chest Dip (kneeling)
Assisted Seated Pectoralis Major Stretch With Stability Ball
Band Bench Press
FAQ
- What muscles does the Barbell Reverse Grip Decline Bench Press work?
- The Barbell Reverse Grip Decline Bench Press primarily targets the pectorals, with the triceps and shoulders assisting.
- What equipment do I need for the Barbell Reverse Grip Decline Bench Press?
- The Barbell Reverse Grip Decline Bench Press is done with a barbell.
- What's a good alternative to the Barbell Reverse Grip Decline Bench Press?
- If you don't have access to a barbell, the Archer Push Up targets the same pectorals using body weight instead.