danfitnz

Exercise library · Triceps

How to Do Pin Presses

Step-by-step instructions, muscles worked and workouts that use the pin presses.

Pin Presses animated demonstration from start to end position
Main musclesTriceps
Also worksChest, Forearms, Lats, Upper & Mid Back, Shoulders
EquipmentBarbell
LevelIntermediate
TypePowerlifting

How to do it

  1. Pin presses remove the eccentric phase of the bench press, developing starting strength. They also allow you to train a desired range of motion.
  2. The bench should be set up in a power rack. Set the pins to the desired point in your range of motion, whether it just be lockout or an inch off of your chest. The bar should be moved to the pins and prepared for lifting.
  3. Begin by lying on the bench, with the bar directly above the contact point during your regular bench. Tuck your feet underneath you and arch your back. Using the bar to help support your weight, lift your shoulder off the bench and retract them, squeezing the shoulder blades together. Use your feet to drive your traps into the bench. Maintain this tight body position throughout the movement.
  4. You can take a standard bench grip, or shoulder width to focus on the triceps. The bar, wrist, and elbow should stay in line at all times. Focus on squeezing the bar and trying to pull it apart.
  5. Drive the bar up with as much force as possible. The elbows should be tucked in until lockout.
  6. Return the bar to the pins, pausing before beginning the next repetition.

Form tips

Browse all workouts →

Similar exercises

Close-Grip Barbell Bench Press animated demonstration
Close-Grip Barbell Bench PressTriceps
JM Press animated demonstration
JM PressTriceps
One Arm Floor Press animated demonstration
One Arm Floor PressTriceps
Reverse Triceps Bench Press animated demonstration
Reverse Triceps Bench PressTriceps
Decline EZ Bar Triceps Extension animated demonstration
Decline EZ Bar Triceps ExtensionTriceps
Decline Close-Grip Bench To Skull Crusher animated demonstration
Decline Close-Grip Bench To Skull CrusherTriceps

Gear for this exercise

Barbell and plates setBarbell and plates setA proper home strength setup for squats and presses.See it on Amazon →Squat rack / power rackSquat rack / power rackThe centre of a serious home gym.See it on Amazon →

Exercise photos and instructions: free-exercise-db (public domain). Animation made from the real start and end photos.

New fat-loss tips every day. Follow danfitnz everywhere: