Floor Press with Chains

The Floor Press with Chains is a intermediate compound movement that activates 3 muscle groups simultaneously. It primarily targets the Triceps, making it one of the more efficient exercises in RepStack's 873-exercise database.

powerliftingintermediatebarbellpushcompound
Floor Press with Chains - starting position

Starting position

Floor Press with Chains - ending position

Ending position

Muscles Worked

Primary Triceps

The triceps handles the primary load during this movement. The chest and shoulders assist as stabilizers throughout the range of motion.

How to Floor Press with Chains

  1. 1

    Adjust the j-hooks so they are at the appropriate height to rack the bar. For this exercise, drape the chains directly over the end of the bar, trying to keep the ends away from the plates.

  2. 2

    Begin lying on the floor with your head near the end of a power rack. Keeping your shoulder blades pulled together, pull the bar off of the hooks.

  3. 3

    Lower the bar towards the bottom of your chest or upper stomach, squeezing the bar and attempting to pull it apart as you do so. Ensure that you tuck your elbows throughout the movement. Lower the bar until your upper arm contacts the ground and pause, preventing any slamming or bouncing of the weight.

  4. 4

    Press the bar back up as fast as you can, keeping the bar, your wrists, and elbows in line as you do so.

Common Mistakes

  • Brace your core before initiating the movement — maintain tension throughout the entire range of motion.
  • Control the eccentric (lowering) phase for at least 2 seconds to maximize muscle fiber recruitment.
  • Grip the bar evenly on both sides — even a small offset shifts the load asymmetrically.
  • Keep the bar path as vertical as possible over your base of support.
  • Avoid locking out aggressively at the top — stop just short of full extension to keep tension on the muscle.

Similar Exercises

Frequently Asked Questions

What muscles does the Floor Press with Chains work?

The Floor Press with Chains primarily works the Triceps. Secondary muscles include the Chest, Shoulders, which assist during the movement.

Is the Floor Press with Chains good for beginners?

The Floor Press with Chains is rated intermediate. Beginners should build foundational strength with simpler movements first, then progress to this exercise once comfortable with the movement pattern.

What equipment do I need for the Floor Press with Chains?

You need barbell to perform the Floor Press with Chains. Most commercial gyms will have this available.

Track Your Progress

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