Straight-Arm Dumbbell Pullover Exercise
Builds strength and control by improving stability, coordination, and efficient movement.
Description
Straight-arm dumbbell pullover focuses on controlled movement and maintaining proper body alignment throughout the exercise. The goal is to create tension where needed while avoiding unnecessary strain or momentum. This helps improve movement quality, joint stability, and overall physical control.
Instructions:
- Place a dumbbell standing up on a flat bench.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Hold the weight on the initial position for a second and repeat the motion for the prescribed number of repetitions.
Exercise FAQ
What should I focus on to keep good form?
Move with control and keep your torso stable. Use a range of motion you can own, and stop the set if you need momentum to finish reps. Think of it as pulling done with repeatable, clean reps.
How can I make this exercise harder without adding a lot of weight?
Slow down the lowering phase, add a brief pause in the hardest position, or increase total reps while keeping form crisp. Think of it as pulling done with repeatable, clean reps.
What’s the safest way to progress over time?
Add a small amount of reps first, then load. If technique slips, step back and rebuild with cleaner reps.
Disclaimer
This content is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical or fitness advice. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before beginning any new exercise routine. Exercise safely and listen to your body.
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