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Dumbbell Larsen Press

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Dumbbell Larsen Press.

MediumMiddle chest

About this exercise

A dumbbell bench press variation performed with feet elevated off the floor in the Larsen position, removing leg drive and spinal arch. Using dumbbells allows for a neutral or varied grip and a greater range of motion, increasing pectoral stretch and core stability demands.

How to Perform

  • Lie on a flat bench and hold a dumbbell in each hand at chest height
  • Raise your feet off the floor and extend your legs straight out in front of you
  • Brace your core to maintain a stable body position without leg support
  • Lower the dumbbells to the sides of your chest with a controlled descent
  • Press the dumbbells back up to full arm extension, keeping feet elevated throughout
  • Keep the movement slow and deliberate to maximize chest activation

Muscle Activation

Primary
Middle chest
Secondary
TricepsCoreFront shoulders

About the Dumbbell Larsen Press

The Dumbbell 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.