1
Sit on the machine seat with your back firmly against the backrest. Adjust the seat height so the handles align with mid-chest level. Keep your feet flat on the floor or footrest for stability.
2
Grip the handles with a neutral grip (palms facing each other) or slightly angled grip. Position your shoulders in a relaxed, retracted position. Engage your core and maintain neutral spine alignment against the backrest.
3
Slowly return the handles to the starting position in a controlled manner by allowing your chest muscles to lengthen. Resist the weight stack throughout the eccentric phase for 2-3 seconds without letting the weight stack collapse completely.
4
Press the handles forward and slightly inward by contracting the chest muscles, bringing the handles together in front of your body. Squeeze the pectoralis major at the peak contraction point, then slowly begin the eccentric phase. Move through a full range of motion without locking out the elbows.