Exercise guide
Landmine Decline Single Arm Chest Press
- Intermediate
- Compound
- Rep-based
- Chest
- Shoulders
- Upper arms
- Waist
This unilateral movement targets the lower pectoral fibers and anterior deltoids while challenging core stability. The landmine's fixed arc provides a unique path of resistance that emphasizes the inner-lower chest and reduces shoulder strain compared to traditional decline presses.
Reviewed by the Crucible team · Updated June 2026
Muscles worked
Setup
- Secure a barbell in a landmine attachment and position a decline bench perpendicular to the bar.
- Lie on the decline bench with your feet secured, positioning yourself so the end of the barbell sleeve is aligned with your lower chest.
- Grasp the end of the barbell sleeve with one hand using a neutral or slightly overhand grip.
- Extend your non-working arm out to the side or place it on your core to help maintain balance.
How to do it
- Exhale as you press the barbell upward and slightly inward toward the midline of your body until your arm is fully extended.
- Squeeze your chest at the top of the movement for a brief pause to maximize peak contraction.
- Inhale as you slowly lower the weight back down until your hand is just above chest level, keeping your elbow at a 45-degree angle from your torso.
- Maintain a controlled 3-1-1 tempo (3 seconds down, 1 second pause at the bottom, 1 second explosive press).
Form checklist
- Keep your shoulder blades retracted and pinned firmly against the bench throughout the set.
- Ensure your wrist remains stacked directly over your elbow to prevent joint shear.
- Avoid rotating your torso toward the weight; keep your hips and shoulders square to the bench.
- Maintain a slight tuck in the chin to keep the cervical spine neutral on the decline.
Pro tips
- Focus on driving your bicep toward your sternum at the top of the rep to maximize lower pectoral recruitment.
- Use your free hand to touch the working pectoral muscle to enhance the mind-muscle connection during the eccentric phase.
Make it harder
- Add a 3-second pause at the bottom of each rep to eliminate momentum and increase mechanical tension.
- Attach a resistance band to the landmine and the base of the bench for accommodating resistance.
Frequently asked
- What muscles does the landmine decline single arm chest press work?
- The landmine decline single arm chest press primarily targets the pectorals, and also works the abs and serratus anterior as secondary muscles.
- What equipment do you need for the landmine decline single arm chest press?
- The landmine decline single arm chest press uses dumbbell.
- Is the landmine decline single arm chest press good for beginners?
- The landmine decline single arm chest press is rated intermediate. Build a base with simpler variations first, then progress to it with light load and strict form.