Elbows flare to 90°
Wide elbow path stresses anterior shoulder joint.
Overactive muscles
Anterior deltoidPec major (clavicular head)
Corrective work
Foam RollPectorals↗StretchDoorway pec stretch↗Push · Upper Body
Incline Bench Press
Coaching cues
- Bench at 30–45°; scapulae retracted and depressed
- Bar to upper chest; elbows ~45–60°
- Press to lockout — bar tracks over upper chest throughout
- Feet planted; slight arch; glutes on pad
Common faults 3
Shoulders roll forward
Scapulae lose retraction; bar drifts off upper chest target.
Overactive muscles
Pec minorAnterior deltoidLatissimus dorsi
Corrective work
Foam RollPectorals↗Foam RollLats↗StretchDoorway pec stretch↗Excessive lumbar arch
Hips lift; back arches beyond stable position.
Overactive muscles
Hip flexorsErector spinae
Corrective work
Foam RollHip flexors↗StretchHalf-kneeling hip flexor stretch↗