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Triceps · Smith machine · Intermediate

How to do Smith Close-grip Bench Press

The smith close-grip bench press is a compound exercise performed on a smith machine, targeting the triceps with secondary emphasis on the chest and shoulders. It involves pressing a barbell with a close grip, which increases triceps activation.

Smith Close-grip Bench Press demonstration
Primary muscle
Triceps
Also works
Chest and Shoulders
Equipment
Smith machine
Level
Intermediate
Category
Triceps

How to do Smith Close-grip Bench Press, step by step

  1. Adjust the seat height and position yourself on the bench with your feet flat on the ground.
  2. Grasp the barbell with a close grip, slightly narrower than shoulder-width apart.
  3. Lower the barbell towards your chest, keeping your elbows close to your body.
  4. Pause for a moment at the bottom, then push the barbell back up to the starting position.
  5. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

Muscles worked

Smith Close-grip Bench Press works your triceps as the main mover, with help from your chest and shoulders.

Track Smith Close-grip Bench Press in SPLYT

Smith Close-grip Bench Press is already in SPLYT’s exercise library. Log your sets, reps and weight on iPhone or Apple Watch, with last time’s weights already filled in.

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