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Seated Pec Dec on a Chair

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Seated Pec Dec on a Chair.

EasyMiddle chest

About this exercise

A bodyweight chest exercise performed seated on a chair that mimics the pec deck machine motion by pressing bent elbows together in front of the chest. Targets the inner pectorals and is effective for chest isolation without any equipment.

How to Perform

  • Sit upright on a chair with feet flat on the floor and your back straight
  • Raise both arms to shoulder height with elbows bent at 90 degrees
  • Slowly bring your elbows together in front of your chest as if closing two panels
  • Squeeze your chest muscles firmly at the peak contraction
  • Slowly return your elbows to the starting position
  • Repeat for the desired number of repetitions

Muscle Activation

Primary
Middle chest
Secondary
Front shouldersUpper chest

About the Seated Pec Dec on a Chair

The Seated Pec Dec on a Chair 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.