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Last updated February 2, 2026
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chest

Incline Bench Press (Cable)

Place a bench in the middle of a cable station. Press the handles up and together over your upper chest. Cables provide constant tension throughout the rep.

Quick facts

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

Muscle focus

Primary and secondary muscle groups targeted by this movement.

Primary

upper chest

Secondary

front shoulders

Equipment & setup

What you need and how to position yourself before starting.

Equipment

cableadjustable bench

Movement pattern

Bilateral

Posture

Lying

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 cable machine to the appropriate height, typically at the lowest setting for incline bench press.
    • Select the desired weight on the cable stack.
  2. Step 2Position the Bench
    • Set an adjustable bench to an incline of about 30 to 45 degrees.
    • Position the bench in the middle of the cable machine, ensuring that the cables are aligned with your chest.
  3. Step 3Grab the Handles
    • Sit on the bench and grab the handles attached to the cables with an overhand grip.
    • Ensure your hands are positioned slightly wider than shoulder-width apart.
  4. Step 4Position Your Body
    • Lie back on the bench, keeping your feet flat on the ground for stability.
    • Retract your shoulder blades and engage your core to maintain a stable position.
  5. Step 5Lift the Handles
    • Press the handles upward, extending your arms fully while keeping a slight bend in your elbows.
    • Focus on pushing through your chest and not locking your elbows at the top.
  6. Step 6Lower the Handles
    • Slowly lower the handles back down to the starting position, controlling the movement.
    • Ensure that your elbows are at about a 45-degree angle from your body as you lower the handles.
  7. Step 7Repeat
    • Perform the desired number of repetitions, maintaining proper form throughout each rep.
  8. Step 8Finish the Exercise
    • After completing your reps, carefully place the handles back on the machine.
    • Sit up and stand, ensuring to maintain good posture as you exit the bench.
Version 1 · Created November 12, 2025