Elbows drift wide on the descent
The narrow elbow path is lost; becomes a standard DB press.
Overactive muscles
Pec majorAnterior deltoid
Corrective work
Foam RollPectorals↗StretchDoorway pec stretch↗Push · Upper Body
Close-Grip DB Press (Elbows In)
Coaching cues
- Hold both dumbbells close together; elbows tucked at 30 degrees from the torso
- Press to lockout; lower to chest level keeping the tight arm path
- More tricep and inner pec than a standard DB press
- Think of pushing the dumbbells toward each other throughout
Common faults 2
Dumbbells separate at the top
The inner pec emphasis is lost when the dumbbells move apart.
Overactive muscles
Anterior deltoidTriceps
Corrective work
Foam RollPectorals↗StretchDoorway pec stretch↗