Incline Neutral-Grip Dumbbell Press

Incline pressing with palms facing each other — a shoulder-friendly grip that still builds upper chest and front shoulder strength.

Setup

Set the bench to a low-to-moderate incline. Lie back holding dumbbells at chest level with palms facing each other.

How to do it

1. Press the dumbbells straight up, keeping palms facing in throughout.
2. Pause briefly at the top without locking out hard.
3. Lower slowly until upper arms are just below shoulder height.
4. Keep wrists stacked directly over elbows.

Common mistakes

• Letting the dumbbells drift out wide at the bottom.
• Arching the lower back off the bench.
• Rushing the lowering phase.

Scale it

Easier: Lighter dumbbells, smaller range of motion.

Harder: Slow 3-second lowering on every rep.

Pairs well with