What To Know
- The incline bench press is a great exercise for building mass and strength in the upper chest.
- The incline bench press is performed on an incline bench with the lifter lying down, while the military press is performed standing upright.
- Both the incline bench press and military press are effective for building mass, but the incline bench press is generally considered to be better for building mass in the upper chest, while the military press is generally considered to be better for building mass in the shoulders.
The incline bench press and military press are two of the most popular upper body exercises in the gym. Both exercises target the chest, shoulders, and triceps, but they do so in slightly different ways.
Incline Bench Press
The incline bench press is performed with the lifter lying on an incline bench with a barbell held at chest height. The lifter then presses the barbell up until their arms are fully extended.
Muscles Worked
The incline bench press primarily targets the upper chest, shoulders, and triceps. It also works the lower chest, back, and abs.
Benefits
The incline bench press is a great exercise for building mass and strength in the upper chest. It can also help to improve shoulder stability and prevent injuries.
Military Press
The military press is performed with the lifter standing upright with a barbell held at shoulder height. The lifter then presses the barbell up until their arms are fully extended.
Muscles Worked
The military press primarily targets the shoulders, upper chest, and triceps. It also works the lower chest, back, and abs.
Benefits
The military press is a great exercise for building mass and strength in the shoulders. It can also help to improve posture and prevent injuries.
Incline Bench Press vs. Military Press: Which Exercise Is Better?
Both the incline bench press and military press are excellent exercises for building upper body strength and mass. However, there are some key differences between the two exercises that may make one better for you than the other.
Incline Bench Press Advantages
- Targets the upper chest more effectively than the military press
- Can be used to build mass and strength in the triceps
- Less likely to cause shoulder injuries
Military Press Advantages
- Targets the shoulders more effectively than the incline bench press
- Can be used to build mass and strength in the upper chest
- Helps to improve posture
Which Exercise Should You Do?
The best exercise for you depends on your individual goals and needs. If you are looking to build mass and strength in your upper chest, the incline bench press is a great choice. If you are looking to build mass and strength in your shoulders, the military press is a great choice.
How to Choose the Right Weight
When choosing the right weight for either exercise, it is important to start with a weight that is challenging but allows you to maintain good form. As you get stronger, you can gradually increase the weight.
Tips for Good Form
- Keep your back straight and your core engaged throughout the movement.
- Press the weight up until your arms are fully extended.
- Lower the weight slowly and in a controlled manner.
- Do not arch your back or swing the weight.
Common Mistakes
- Using too much weight and sacrificing form
- Not pressing the weight up to full extension
- Lowering the weight too quickly
- Arching your back or swinging the weight
Safety Precautions
- Warm up before doing either exercise.
- Use a spotter when lifting heavy weights.
- If you have any shoulder pain, consult with a doctor or physical therapist before doing either exercise.
Key Points: The Ultimate Upper Body Exercise Showdown
The incline bench press and military press are two of the most effective exercises for building upper body strength and mass. Both exercises have their own unique benefits and drawbacks, so it is important to choose the exercise that is best for you based on your individual goals and needs.
What You Need to Learn
What is the difference between the incline bench press and military press?
The incline bench press is performed on an incline bench with the lifter lying down, while the military press is performed standing upright. The incline bench press targets the upper chest more effectively, while the military press targets the shoulders more effectively.
Which exercise is better for building mass?
Both the incline bench press and military press are effective for building mass, but the incline bench press is generally considered to be better for building mass in the upper chest, while the military press is generally considered to be better for building mass in the shoulders.
Which exercise is better for strength?
Both the incline bench press and military press are effective for building strength, but the military press is generally considered to be better for building strength in the shoulders, while the incline bench press is generally considered to be better for building strength in the upper chest.
