Smith Machine Close-Grip Bench Press

Smith Machine Close-Grip Bench Press

Type: Compound Muscle: Chest Equipment: Machine

A triceps-focused bench press performed with a close grip on a Smith Machine.

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This exercise targets:

Chest
Middle Chest
Upper Chest
Lower Chest
Serratus
Triceps
Shoulders
Front Delts

Ratios are approximate and can vary depending on form and technique.

How to perform

  1. Set bench under the Smith bar; set safeties just above your chest
  2. Lie back with feet planted; eyes under bar; shoulder blades pulled back and down
  3. Grip shoulder-width or slightly narrower; wrists straight; thumbs wrapped
  4. Unrack and hold bar over lower chest; keep forearms vertical
  5. Inhale and lower to lower chest/sternum; elbows tucked 30–45 degrees
  6. Light touch, then press up on the same path; exhale; avoid hard lockout
  7. Keep core tight and butt on bench; control tempo; rerack securely