Arms, chest & shoulders

Dumbbell floor press

A chest press lying on the floor — the floor limits the range, which keeps shoulders comfortable.

Beginner Low impact DumbbellsExercise mat
Movement diagram for Dumbbell floor press: floor press (elbows down) to floor press (arms up)
Original diagram — start and finish positions.

How to do it

  1. Lie on your back with knees bent, a dumbbell in each hand.
  2. Rest your upper arms on the floor at about 45 degrees from your body, weights above your elbows.
  3. Press the weights up until your arms are straight above your chest.
  4. Lower slowly until your upper arms touch the floor again.

Form tips

  • Squeeze your shoulder blades gently together and down.
  • Touch the floor lightly — no bouncing.

Common mistakes

  • Elbows flared out at 90 degrees.
  • Letting the weights drift over your face.

Easier and harder

Make it easier

Use lighter weights or one at a time.

Make it harder

Use heavier weights, or pause with arms just off the floor.

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