Bench Press vs Chest Press Machine
Which one fits your Chest workout plan?
Contents
Bench Press uses a barbell, Chest Press Machine uses a machine — same Chest target, different setup and load path.
Compare the benefits of Bench Press and Chest Press Machine and pick the one that fits your Chest workout.
Bench Press vs Chest Press Machine: Which Do Planfit Users Choose?
Based on randomly selected data from 1 million completed workouts, Planfit users log Chest Press Machine more often — 46,851 sessions compared to 38,526 for Bench Press.
What most people do isn't always what fits you. Bench Press and Chest Press Machine differ in the muscles they work, the equipment they need, and how hard they are to learn — the comparison below covers each.
How Bench Press and Chest Press Machine Differ
| What differs | Bench Press | Chest Press Machine |
|---|---|---|
| Equipment | a barbell | a machine |
| Difficulty | 3 of 5 | 1 of 5 |
| Sessions logged by Planfit users | 38,526 sessions | 46,851 sessions |
How to Do Bench Press
Bench Press Muscles Worked: Chest
Form
- 1. Slowly lower the barbell until it touches below your chest.
- 2. At this time, your forearms should be perpendicular to the floor.
- 3. Slowly lift the barbell back to the starting position.
Coach's Tips
- 1. If the barbell does not touch your chest, please lower it as much as possible without overexerting yourself.
- 2. Be careful not to let your shoulders come forward of your chest, as this can put strain on your shoulders.
- 3. Please be careful not to let your hips come off the bench.
For a full Bench Press guide with alternatives and benefits, see the Bench Press exercise guide.
How to Do Chest Press Machine
Chest Press Machine Muscles Worked: Chest
Form
- 1. Please push the handle hard.
- 2. Slowly return to the starting position.
Coach's Tips
- 1. If you fully extend your elbows, it can strain your elbow joints and the front of your shoulders, so do not extend them all the way.
- 2. If you overarch your lower back, you may feel pain in your lower back, so engage your abs to stabilize your torso.
For a full Chest Press Machine guide with alternatives and benefits, see the Chest Press Machine exercise guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for Chest, Bench Press or Chest Press Machine?
Neither is clearly ahead — Planfit users log both at a similar rate. They both train Chest, so the choice comes down to the equipment you have and the muscles you want to load.
What equipment do Bench Press and Chest Press Machine need?
Bench Press needs a barbell, and Chest Press Machine needs a machine.
Which is easier to start with?
Chest Press Machine is the easier place to start. Move to Bench Press once your form holds up.
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