Dumbbell Pullover vs EZ-bar Bench Press
Which one fits your Chest workout plan?
Contents
Planfit users log Dumbbell Pullover more often — 4,159 sessions vs 21. Compare Chest form, muscles worked, and when to use each.
Compare the benefits of Dumbbell Pullover and EZ-bar Bench Press and pick the one that fits your Chest workout.
Dumbbell Pullover vs EZ-bar Bench Press: Which Do Planfit Users Choose?
Based on randomly selected data from 1 million completed workouts, Planfit users log Dumbbell Pullover more often — 4,159 sessions compared to 21 for EZ-bar Bench Press.
What most people do isn't always what fits you. Dumbbell Pullover and EZ-bar Bench Press differ in the muscles they work, the equipment they need, and how hard they are to learn — the comparison below covers each.
How Dumbbell Pullover and EZ-bar Bench Press Differ
| What differs | Dumbbell Pullover | EZ-bar Bench Press |
|---|---|---|
| Muscles worked | chest, back, and triceps | chest, triceps, and front delts |
| Equipment | a dumbbell | a barbell |
| Difficulty | 4 of 5 | 5 of 5 |
| Sessions logged by Planfit users | 4,159 sessions | 21 sessions |
How to Do Dumbbell Pullover
Dumbbell Pullover Muscles Worked: Chest
Form
- 1. Slowly lower the dumbbell above your head.
- 2. At this time, your chest and back should be sufficiently stretched.
- 3. Slowly lift the dumbbell to return to the starting position.
Coach's Tips
- 1. If you feel pain in the front of your shoulder or chest, or if it is difficult to lower the dumbbell above the top of your head, do not overexert yourself and lower it only as much as you can, and adjust to a lighter dumbbell.
- 2. Engage your abs to protect your lower back so that your lower back does not overarch.
For a full Dumbbell Pullover guide with alternatives and benefits, see the Dumbbell Pullover exercise guide.
How to Do EZ-bar Bench Press
EZ-bar Bench Press Muscles Worked: Chest
Form
- 1. Slowly lower the bar while naturally spreading your elbows to the sides.
- 2. When the bar comes down just above your chest, pause for a moment.
- 3. Using the strength of your chest and triceps, push the bar back up to return to the starting position.
- 4. Do not fully lock your elbows; keep them slightly bent to maintain tension.
Coach's Tips
- 1. Avoid using excessive weight as it puts a lot of strain on your shoulders and elbows.
- 2. Be careful not to overly flare your elbows to prevent shoulder pinching.
- 3. If possible, proceed safely with a spotter.
For a full EZ-bar Bench Press guide with alternatives and benefits, see the EZ-bar Bench Press exercise guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for Chest, Dumbbell Pullover or EZ-bar Bench Press?
Planfit users log Dumbbell Pullover more often — 4,159 sessions against 21 for EZ-bar Bench Press. Both train Chest, so pick the one that matches the equipment you have and the muscles you want to load.
Do Dumbbell Pullover and EZ-bar Bench Press work the same muscles?
Not quite. Dumbbell Pullover loads chest, back, and triceps, and EZ-bar Bench Press loads chest, triceps, and front delts.
What equipment do Dumbbell Pullover and EZ-bar Bench Press need?
Dumbbell Pullover needs a dumbbell, and EZ-bar Bench Press needs a barbell.
Which is easier to start with?
Dumbbell Pullover is the easier place to start. Move to EZ-bar Bench Press once your form holds up.
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