Cable Incline Close-Grip Shoulder Press with V-Bar - How to Perform, Muscles, Variants | SatisFIT Skip to main content

Cable Incline Close-Grip Shoulder Press with V-Bar

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Cable Incline Close-Grip Shoulder Press with V-Bar.

MediumFront shoulders

About this exercise

A cable shoulder press variation performed seated on an incline bench using a V-bar attachment with a close, neutral grip. The incline angle shifts emphasis toward the front deltoid and upper chest while the neutral grip reduces wrist strain compared to a straight-bar overhead press. Constant cable tension throughout the range of motion makes this an effective hypertrophy accessory.

How to Perform

  • Set an adjustable bench to a slight incline (20–30°) and position it in front of a low cable pulley
  • Attach a V-bar to the cable and sit on the bench facing away from the pulley
  • Grasp the V-bar with both hands, palms facing each other, and hold it at shoulder level
  • Press the bar upward and slightly forward until your arms are fully extended overhead
  • Pause briefly at the top, then slowly lower the bar back to shoulder level
  • Keep your elbows tracking slightly inward throughout the movement
  • Maintain contact with the bench and avoid arching your lower back excessively

Muscle Activation

Primary
Front shoulders
Secondary
TricepsSide shouldersUpper chest

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes content is coming soon.

About the Cable Incline Close-Grip Shoulder Press with V-Bar

The Cable Incline Close-Grip Shoulder Press with V-Bar 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.