Exercise 0753 · REF ETZfAbZ

Smith Decline Bench Press exercise animation

Smith Decline Bench Press

Category
Chest
Equipment
Smith Machine
Target
Pectorals

Declining the bench under a Smith machine bar shifts emphasis toward the lower chest, same as a free-weight decline press, while the fixed bar path takes the stabilization demand out of an angle that already limits range of motion. It's a useful option for lower-chest work when a spotter isn't available. The decline angle alone does most of the work in changing the muscle emphasis, not the machine.

How to Do the Smith Decline Bench Press

  1. Adjust the decline bench to the desired angle.
  2. Lie down on the bench with your feet secured under the foot pads.
  3. Grasp the barbell with an overhand grip slightly wider than shoulder-width apart.
  4. Unrack the barbell and lower it slowly towards your chest, keeping your elbows tucked in.
  5. Pause for a moment at the bottom, then push the barbell back up to the starting position.
  6. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

Muscles Worked

The Smith Decline Bench Press primarily targets the Pectorals, with Triceps as the primary synergist muscle group, along with the Shoulders.

More Chest Exercises

More Pectorals Exercises

Equipment Alternatives

Don't have smith machine? These target the same pectorals with different equipment.

FAQ

What muscles does the Smith Decline Bench Press work?
The Smith Decline Bench Press primarily targets the pectorals, with the triceps and shoulders assisting.
What equipment do I need for the Smith Decline Bench Press?
The Smith Decline Bench Press is done with a smith machine.
What's a good alternative to the Smith Decline Bench Press?
If you don't have access to a smith machine, the Archer Push Up targets the same pectorals using body weight instead.