Dumbbell Pullover vs Pullover Machine (Chest Target)
Which one fits your Chest workout plan?
Contents
Planfit users log Dumbbell Pullover more often — 4,159 sessions vs 141. Compare Chest form, muscles worked, and when to use each.
Compare the benefits of Dumbbell Pullover and Pullover Machine (Chest Target) and pick the one that fits your Chest workout.
Dumbbell Pullover vs Pullover Machine (Chest Target): 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 141 for Pullover Machine (Chest Target).
What most people do isn't always what fits you. Dumbbell Pullover and Pullover Machine (Chest Target) 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 Pullover Machine (Chest Target) Differ
| What differs | Dumbbell Pullover | Pullover Machine (Chest Target) |
|---|---|---|
| Equipment | a dumbbell | a machine |
| Difficulty | 4 of 5 | 5 of 5 |
| Sessions logged by Planfit users | 4,159 sessions | 141 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 Pullover Machine (Chest Target)
Pullover Machine (Chest Target) Muscles Worked: Chest
Form
- 1. Keep your elbow angle and lower the handle in a large circle in front of your body.
- 2. When the handle gets close to your chest, feel the contraction in your chest and pause for a moment.
- 3. Slowly raise your arms back up towards your head to return to the starting position.
- 4. Throughout the movement, focus on the stimulation in your chest and sides instead of your shoulders.
Coach's Tips
- 1. Avoid using excessive weights as it puts a lot of strain on your shoulders.
- 2. Do not excessively arch your back and engage your core.
- 3. If you feel discomfort in your shoulder joints, reduce the range of motion or lower the weight.
For a full Pullover Machine (Chest Target) guide with alternatives and benefits, see the Pullover Machine (Chest Target) exercise guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for Chest, Dumbbell Pullover or Pullover Machine (Chest Target)?
Planfit users log Dumbbell Pullover more often — 4,159 sessions against 141 for Pullover Machine (Chest Target). Both train Chest, so pick the one that matches the equipment you have and the muscles you want to load.
What equipment do Dumbbell Pullover and Pullover Machine (Chest Target) need?
Dumbbell Pullover needs a dumbbell, and Pullover Machine (Chest Target) needs a machine.
Which is easier to start with?
Dumbbell Pullover is the easier place to start. Move to Pullover Machine (Chest Target) once your form holds up.
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