Push

Bench Dips (Straight)

Beginner Level 40/100

Straight-leg bench dips are the harder chair-dip version. Fully extending the legs makes the arms support a larger share of body weight—an essential bridge between bent-knee dips and parallel-bar dips.

Bench Dips (Straight)
LevelIntermediate
Sets3 × 8-15 reps
Rest90 sec
EquipmentChair

Key difference

With legs straight and heels on the floor, the center of mass shifts and arm load rises sharply. Many people who hit 20 bent-knee reps only manage 8-10 with straight legs.

To increase difficulty

Elevate the feet on a second chair at the same height. That approaches parallel-bar dip load. You can also add weight (backpack) on the thighs.

Shoulder protection

Do not drop past the point where the shoulder feels tense. Deep dips without enough strength can irritate the rotator cuff.

Goal

3×15 with straight legs before moving to parallel-bar dips.

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