Dumbbell Pullover vs Step Box Push Up
Which one fits your Chest workout plan?
Contents
Planfit users log Dumbbell Pullover more often — 4,159 sessions vs 3. Compare Chest form, muscles worked, and when to use each.
Compare the benefits of Dumbbell Pullover and Step Box Push Up and pick the one that fits your Chest workout.
Dumbbell Pullover vs Step Box Push Up: 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 3 for Step Box Push Up.
What most people do isn't always what fits you. Dumbbell Pullover and Step Box Push Up 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 Step Box Push Up Differ
| What differs | Dumbbell Pullover | Step Box Push Up |
|---|---|---|
| Muscles worked | chest, back, and triceps | chest, triceps, and front delts |
| Equipment | a dumbbell | bodyweight only |
| Difficulty | 4 of 5 | 5 of 5 |
| Sessions logged by Planfit users | 4,159 sessions | 3 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 Step Box Push Up
Step Box Push Up Muscles Worked: Chest
Form
- 1. Bend your elbows and slowly lower your body until your chest is close to the step box.
- 2. Feel the tension in your chest, pause, and then push your body back to the starting position by extending your arms.
- 3. Engage your core throughout the movement to keep your body from bending.
- 4. Repeat with a steady rhythm.
Coach's Tips
- 1. Place the box on a non-slip mat or against the wall to prevent it from sliding.
- 2. Engage your abdomen and hips to avoid bending your waist.
- 3. If you feel discomfort in your wrists, adjust the angle or proceed at a lower height.
For a full Step Box Push Up guide with alternatives and benefits, see the Step Box Push Up exercise guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for Chest, Dumbbell Pullover or Step Box Push Up?
Planfit users log Dumbbell Pullover more often — 4,159 sessions against 3 for Step Box Push Up. Both train Chest, so pick the one that matches the equipment you have and the muscles you want to load.
Do Dumbbell Pullover and Step Box Push Up work the same muscles?
Not quite. Dumbbell Pullover loads chest, back, and triceps, and Step Box Push Up loads chest, triceps, and front delts.
What equipment do Dumbbell Pullover and Step Box Push Up need?
Dumbbell Pullover needs a dumbbell, and Step Box Push Up needs bodyweight only.
Which is easier to start with?
Dumbbell Pullover is the easier place to start. Move to Step Box Push Up once your form holds up.
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