Tip: Master the Dip for a Big Chest

Most people think the bench press builds the best pecs. Well, most people are wrong. The dip is better. And it can be a great triceps exercise as well, if you do it right.

Chest Dip Guidelines

  • Torso forward
  • Legs forward
  • Medium to wide hand width
  • "Gunslinger" elbows position
  • Contract the abs to maintain form
  • Don't lock out the elbows at the top position
  • Shoulder drops slightly below the elbow in bottom position
  • Head neutral: Don't look up or down.
  • To build the chest, do full-range dips with an additional load of 50% bodyweight for 6-8 reps.

Triceps Dip Guidelines

  • Torso more upright
  • Legs back
  • Narrower hand width
  • Elbows closer to the body
  • Squeeze the glutes to maintain form
  • Lock out elbows in top position
  • Shoulder drops slightly below the elbow at bottom
  • Head neutral: Don't look up or down.
Christian Thibaudeau specializes in building bodies that perform as well as they look. He is one of the most sought-after coaches by the world's top athletes and bodybuilders. Check out the Christian Thibaudeau Coaching Forum.