Suspender Chest Press

Instructions

1
Start in a suspended plank position with feet in TRX straps, body straight from head to heels, hands positioned slightly wider than shoulder-width, arms extended supporting your body weight
2
Engage your core, glutes, and maintain neutral spine alignment. Position chest directly over hands with straps taut and body forming a straight line. Hands should be directly under shoulders with a neutral grip
3
Lower your body by bending elbows, allowing chest to descend toward the handles in a controlled manner. Keep elbows at approximately 45-degree angle from body. Lower until chest nearly touches the handles or until comfortable range is achieved
4
Press through hands to extend elbows and drive chest away from handles, returning to starting position. Maintain rigid plank alignment throughout, squeezing chest muscles at peak contraction before repeating

PRIMARY MUSCLESPectoralis Major
SECONDARY MUSCLESAnterior Deltoid, Triceps, Serratus Anterior, Core Stabilizers
EQUIPMENTSuspension
DIFFICULTYIntermediate

Overview

If you want to isolate and overload the Pectoralis Major, the Suspender Chest Press is an excellent addition to your routine. The mechanics of this Strength exercise specifically bias the Chest, while the use of Suspension allows for a smooth, natural resistance curve.

Benefits

  • Allows for a natural movement path that closely mimics functional daily activities.
  • Significantly enhances the structural integrity and power of the Pectoralis Major.
  • Utilizes Suspension to create sustained mechanical tension, forcing deep muscle adaptation.
  • Reduces the likelihood of Chest injuries by reinforcing connective tissue strength.
  • Improves overall Chest stability and proprioception during heavy loads.

Pro Tips

Control the eccentric (lowering) phase of the Suspender Chest Press for 3-4 seconds to drastically increase time under tension.

Muscle Anatomy

The primary driver is the Pectoralis Major. However, the movement also recruits Anterior Deltoid, Triceps, Serratus Anterior, Core Stabilizers to maintain control of the Suspension.

Exercise Variations

  • Dumbbell Suspender Chest Press
  • Cable Suspender Chest Press
  • Banded Suspender Chest Press

Beginner Tips

If you are new to the Suspender Chest Press, focus on mastering the movement pattern with zero weight before adding Suspension.

Frequently Asked Questions