Bent Over One Arm Cable Chest Press: Video Tutorial & Exercise Guide

Author Claude Michael

Written By: Claude Michael

Updated: Oct 13, 2024

Workout Bent Over One Arm Cable Chest Press
Primary Muscle Group Chest
Secondary Muscle Group Shoulders, Triceps
Equipment Required Cable
Force Type Push
Mechanics Isolation
Exercise Type Strength
Difficulty Intermediate

Bent Over One Arm Cable Chest Press: Video Tutorial & Exercise Guide

Muscle Groups

Primary Muscle Group

Chest Muscle Exercises

Secondary Muscles Group

Bent Over One Arm Cable Chest Press: Step-by-Step Guide

  • Step 1: Set the pulley of a cable machine at chest height. Stand facing away from the machine and grab the handle with one hand using an overhand grip. Take a step forward with your opposite leg and lean slightly forward, engaging your core for stability.
  • Step 2: Bend over slightly at your hips, keeping your back straight. Bring the handle to shoulder height and keep your elbow bent at a 90-degree angle. This is your starting position.
  • Step 3: Press the handle forward in a straight line until your arm is fully extended. Squeeze your chest at the top of the movement.
  • Step 4: Slowly return to the starting position by bending your elbow and bringing the handle back to shoulder height, controlling the motion throughout.
  • Step 5: Perform the desired number of repetitions, then switch arms to work the opposite side.

Bent Over One Arm Cable Chest Press: Overview

The Bent Over One Arm Cable Chest Press is an effective unilateral chest exercise that focuses on isolating each pectoral muscle independently. It’s particularly beneficial for correcting muscle imbalances while also engaging the core for stability. The bent-over position places more emphasis on the upper chest and shoulders, allowing for a full range of motion that enhances muscle activation.

This exercise also engages stabilizer muscles, such as the deltoids and core, to help improve overall upper-body strength and posture.

Bent Over One Arm Cable Chest Press: Benefits

The Bent Over One Arm Cable Chest Press allows for unilateral training, which is great for correcting muscle imbalances and building symmetrical strength. The cable provides constant tension throughout the movement, leading to better muscle activation in the chest, shoulders, and triceps. Additionally, the bent-over position engages the core, making it a functional exercise for improving stability and coordination.

This exercise is also great for enhancing shoulder mobility and can help prevent injuries by strengthening stabilizer muscles.

Bent Over One Arm Cable Chest Press: Pro Tips & Advanced Techniques

Focus on keeping your core tight throughout the movement to prevent your torso from rotating. Keep your elbow slightly bent to reduce stress on the shoulder joint, and press the handle straight forward to maximize chest engagement. For an added challenge, you can increase the weight or slow down the eccentric (lowering) phase to increase time under tension.

Bent Over One Arm Cable Chest Press: Progression Plan

Beginner

Sets: 2-3
Reps: 8-10 per arm
Progression Tips: Start with a light weight to focus on maintaining form and control throughout the movement.

Intermediate

Sets: 3
Reps: 10-12 per arm
Progression Tips: Increase the weight and control the lowering phase to maximize muscle engagement.

Advanced

Sets: 4
Reps: 12-15 per arm
Progression Tips: Use heavier weights and incorporate a pause at the top of the movement for added intensity.

Bent Over One Arm Cable Chest Press: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What muscles does the Bent Over One Arm Cable Chest Press target?

+

This exercise primarily targets the chest (pectorals), while also engaging the shoulders, triceps, and core for stabilization.

Can beginners perform the Bent Over One Arm Cable Chest Press?

+

Yes, beginners can perform this exercise with lighter weights to focus on proper form and control before progressing to heavier loads.

How can I make the Bent Over One Arm Cable Chest Press more challenging?

+

To increase difficulty, you can add more weight, slow down the lowering phase to increase time under tension, or perform the exercise in a more bent-over position for greater core engagement.

What common mistakes should I avoid during the Bent Over One Arm Cable Chest Press?

+

Avoid rotating your torso or using your shoulders to lift the weight. Focus on controlled movements and engaging your chest to press the handle forward.

How often should I include the Bent Over One Arm Cable Chest Press in my routine?

+

Incorporate this exercise 1-2 times per week as part of your upper-body or chest workout to improve strength and stability.

Releted Exercises