A standing press with cables set at chest height that trains the chest while requiring core stability to resist being pulled backward.
Primary muscles
Secondary muscles
This information is general fitness guidance, not medical advice. Stop if you feel pain and consult a qualified professional.
Main muscles working (thicker lines)
Set both pulleys at chest height, hold a handle in each hand at chest level and step forward into a staggered stance.
Brace the core and keep the torso still.
Press both handles forward until the arms are straight in front of the chest.
Pause briefly with the chest squeezed.
Return the handles to chest level under control.
Breathing: Exhale as you press, inhale as you return.
Stay tall and braced
Press straight ahead
Don't let the cables pull you back
Leaning forward to move the weight
Losing the staggered stance
Letting elbows drift up toward the ears
Pick a load you can control without twisting or stepping backward.