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Dumbbell Incline One Arm Press

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Dumbbell Incline One Arm Press.

MediumUpper chest

About this exercise

A unilateral incline chest press performed with a single dumbbell on an adjustable bench set to an incline. Pressing with one arm at a time increases the demand on the core to prevent rotation and allows each side to be trained independently.

How to Perform

  • Set an adjustable bench to a 30–45 degree incline and sit back with one dumbbell held at shoulder height on the working side
  • Plant both feet flat on the floor and brace your core to resist any torso rotation
  • Press the dumbbell straight up until your arm is fully extended above your chest
  • Lower the dumbbell in a controlled manner back to the starting position at shoulder level
  • Complete all reps on one side before switching to the other arm

Muscle Activation

Primary
Upper chest
Secondary
TricepsFront shoulders

About the Dumbbell Incline One Arm Press

The Dumbbell Incline One Arm 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.