Bench Press (Smith Machine) demonstration

Bench Press (Smith Machine)

Learn how to do the Bench Press (Smith Machine) with proper form, setup, and execution.

This smith machine movement primarily targets chest, including upper chest, lower chest.

How to Perform Bench Press (Smith Machine)

  1. 1

    Add the appropriate amount of weight and lie back on a flat bench under a Smith machine bar.

  2. 2

    Grab the bar with an overhand grip slightly wider than shoulder-width and plant your feet flat on the floor.

  3. 3

    Retract your shoulder blades, engage your abs, and take a breath.

  4. 4

    Unrack the bar and lower it toward your mid-chest.

  5. 5

    Press the bar back up until your arms are fully extended, squeezing your chest at the top and exhale.

  6. 6

    Repeat for the desired number of repetitions, then rack the bar.

Training Guidelines

The targets below are general guidelines. Adjust volume and intensity based on your experience, recovery, and goals. If you track effort, aim for most working sets around RPE 7–9.

GoalSetsRepsRest
Strength3-54-62-3 min
Muscle Growth3-48-1260-90 sec
Endurance2-315-2030-60 sec
Beginner2-310-1560-90 sec

Want to pair movements efficiently? Try grouping them as supersets.

Frequently Asked Questions