Get the App

Straight-Arm Dumbbell Pullover

Chest Lats Shoulders Triceps Intermediate Strength Dumbbell
Straight-Arm Dumbbell Pullover Straight-Arm Dumbbell Pullover
Equipment
Dumbbell
Level
Intermediate
Force
Pull
Mechanic
Compound
Instructions
  1. Place a dumbbell standing up on a flat bench.
  2. Ensuring that the dumbbell stays securely placed at the top of the bench, lie perpendicular to the bench (torso across it as in forming a cross) with only your shoulders lying on the surface. Hips should be below the bench and legs bent with feet firmly on the floor. The head will be off the bench as well.
  3. Grasp the dumbbell with both hands and hold it straight over your chest at arms length. Both palms should be pressing against the underside one of the sides of the dumbbell. This will be your starting position. Caution: Always ensure that the dumbbell used for this exercise is secure. Using a dumbbell with loose plates can result in the dumbbell falling apart and falling on your face.
  4. While keeping your arms straight, lower the weight slowly in an arc behind your head while breathing in until you feel a stretch on the chest.
  5. At that point, bring the dumbbell back to the starting position using the arc through which the weight was lowered and exhale as you perform this movement.
  6. Hold the weight on the initial position for a second and repeat the motion for the prescribed number of repetitions.
Frequently asked questions
What muscles does the Straight-Arm Dumbbell Pullover work?

Straight-Arm Dumbbell Pullover primarily targets the Chest. It also engages the Lats, Shoulders, Triceps as secondary muscles. This makes it an effective strength exercise for building chest development.

What equipment do I need for the Straight-Arm Dumbbell Pullover?

You will need a dumbbell to perform the Straight-Arm Dumbbell Pullover. Make sure the equipment is set up properly and at the appropriate weight before starting.

Is the Straight-Arm Dumbbell Pullover suitable for beginners?

The Straight-Arm Dumbbell Pullover is an intermediate exercise. You should have a solid foundation of basic strength movements before attempting it. If you're new to training, start with simpler variations and progress to this exercise as your form and strength improve.

Is the Straight-Arm Dumbbell Pullover a compound or isolation exercise?

The Straight-Arm Dumbbell Pullover is a compound exercise, meaning it works multiple joints and muscle groups simultaneously. Compound movements are efficient for building overall strength and are typically performed earlier in a workout when you have the most energy.

How many sets and reps should I do for the Straight-Arm Dumbbell Pullover?

For strength, aim for 3-5 sets of 5-8 reps with heavier weight. For muscle building (hypertrophy), try 3-4 sets of 8-12 reps at a moderate weight. For endurance, use lighter weight and perform 2-3 sets of 15-20 reps.

What are good alternatives to the Straight-Arm Dumbbell Pullover?

Good alternatives include the Alternating Floor Press, Around The Worlds, Barbell Bench Press - Medium Grip. These exercises target similar muscle groups (Chest) and can be substituted based on available equipment or training preference.

Track this exercise

Log sets, reps, and weight. See your progress over time.

Get Another One