Tate Press Exercise

Builds strength and control by improving stability, coordination, and efficient movement.

Tate Press
Tate Press
Level: intermediate
Equipment: dumbbell
Force: push
Mechanic: isolation
Core muscles: triceps
Secondary muscle: chest, shoulders

Description

Tate press 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:

  1. Lie down on a flat bench with a dumbbell in each hand on top of your thighs. The palms of your hand will be facing each other.
  2. By using your thighs to help you get the dumbbells up, clean the dumbbells one arm at a time so that you can hold them in front of you at shoulder width. Note: when holding the dumbbells in front of you, make sure your arms are wider than shoulder width apart from each other using a pronated (palms forward) grip. Allow your elbows to point out. This is your starting position.
  3. Keeping the upper arms stationary, slowly move the dumbbells in and down in a semi circular motion until they touch the upper chest while inhaling. Keep full control of the dumbbells at all times and do not move the upper arms nor rest the dumbbells on the chest.
  4. As you breathe out, move the dumbbells up using your triceps and the same semi-circular motion but in reverse. Attempt to keep the dumbbells together as they move up. Lock your arms in the contracted position, hold for a second and then start coming down again slowly again. Tip: It should take at least twice as long to go down than to come up.
  5. Repeat the movement for the prescribed amount of repetitions of your training program.

Exercise FAQ

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.

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.

What should I do if I feel it in the wrong place?

Check your setup, slow down, and reduce weight. If discomfort is sharp or in a joint, stop and choose an easier variation. Think of it as pressing done with repeatable, clean 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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