Barbell Close Grip Larsen Press - How to Perform, Muscles, Variants | SatisFIT Skip to main content

Barbell Close Grip Larsen Press

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Barbell Close Grip Larsen Press.

MediumTricepsMiddle chest

About this exercise

A close-grip bench press performed in the Larsen position with feet elevated off the floor, combining the triceps-focused demand of close-grip pressing with the increased chest stretch and core stability requirement of the Larsen setup. The narrow grip shifts the primary load to the triceps.

How to Perform

  • Lie on a flat bench and unrack the barbell with a close grip (hands roughly shoulder-width or slightly narrower)
  • Raise your feet off the floor and extend your legs straight out in front of you
  • Brace your core firmly to stabilize on the bench without leg support
  • Lower the bar to your lower chest with elbows tucked close to the torso
  • Press the bar back to full lockout, driving primarily through the triceps
  • Keep feet elevated and core tight throughout every repetition
  • Re-rack the bar safely at the end of the set

Muscle Activation

Primary
TricepsMiddle chest
Secondary
CoreFront shoulders

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes content is coming soon.

About the Barbell Close Grip Larsen Press

The Barbell Close Grip Larsen Press is a foundational movement that builds strength and muscle through controlled, progressive overload. Train it 1 to 2 times per week with 3 to 5 working sets per session, gradually adding weight or reps as form holds up.