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Last updated February 2, 2026
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chest

Chest Press (Machine: Plate Loaded)

Load plates. Sit and press handles forward. Focus on pushing yourself into the seat as you press out.

Quick facts

Difficulty
Moderate
Mechanic
Compound
Force
Push
Type
Strength
Injury Risk
Low
Hypertrophy
Very High
Calorie Burn
Medium-High

Muscle focus

Primary and secondary muscle groups targeted by this movement.

Primary

chest

Secondary

triceps

Equipment & setup

What you need and how to position yourself before starting.

Equipment

leverage machine

Movement pattern

Bilateral

Posture

Seated

Tracking parameters

repsweight

Step-by-step instructions

Follow these cues to master proper technique and stay safe through every rep.

  1. Step 1Setup
    • Adjust the seat height of the chest press machine so that the handles are at chest level when you sit down.
    • Select an appropriate weight by adding or removing plates on the machine.
  2. Step 2Sit Down
    • Sit on the machine with your back firmly against the backrest.
    • Place your feet flat on the floor, shoulder-width apart.
  3. Step 3Grip the Handles
    • Reach for the handles with both hands, ensuring your grip is shoulder-width apart.
    • Your palms should be facing forward, and your elbows should be slightly bent.
  4. Step 4Position Your Body
    • Engage your core and keep your back pressed against the backrest.
    • Ensure your shoulders are down and relaxed, away from your ears.
  5. Step 5Press the Handles
    • Push the handles away from your chest by extending your arms, exhaling as you press.
    • Keep your elbows slightly bent at the top of the movement to avoid locking them out.
  6. Step 6Lower the Handles
    • Slowly bring the handles back towards your chest, inhaling as you lower them.
    • Maintain control throughout the movement, ensuring your elbows stay at a comfortable angle.
  7. Step 7Repeat
    • Continue pressing and lowering the handles for the desired number of repetitions.
    • Focus on maintaining proper form with each rep.
  8. Step 8Finish the Exercise
    • After completing your reps, carefully place the handles back to the starting position.
    • Stand up from the machine, keeping your back straight, and ensure you safely exit the machine.
Version 1 · Created November 12, 2025