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Exercise Comparison

Bench Dips vs Chain Handle Extension

Bench Dips - starting position
Bench Dips - ending position
Bench Dips
beginner·Bodyweight·compound
Chain Handle Extension - starting position
Chain Handle Extension - ending position
Chain Handle Extension
intermediate·Other·isolation

Side-by-Side

Bench Dips
VS
Chain Handle Extension
beginner
Level
intermediate
Bodyweight
Equipment
Other
compound
Mechanic
isolation
push
Force
push
Strength
Category
Powerlifting
triceps
Primary
triceps
chestshoulders
Secondary
None

Muscle Analysis

Shared

triceps

Only in Bench Dips

chestshoulders

Instructions

Bench Dips

1

For this exercise you will need to place a bench behind your back. With the bench perpendicular to your body, and while looking away from it, hold on to the bench on its edge with the hands fully extended, separated at shoulder width. The legs will be extended forward, bent at the waist and perpendicular to your torso. This will be your starting position.

2

Slowly lower your body as you inhale by bending at the elbows until you lower yourself far enough to where there is an angle slightly smaller than 90 degrees between the upper arm and the forearm. Tip: Keep the elbows as close as possible throughout the movement. Forearms should always be pointing down.

3

Using your triceps to bring your torso up again, lift yourself back to the starting position.

4

Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.

Chain Handle Extension

1

You will need two cable handle attachments and a flat bench, as well as chains, for this exercise. Clip the middle of the chains to the handles, and position yourself on the flat bench. Your elbows should be pointing straight up.

2

Begin by extending through the elbow, keeping your upper arm still, with your wrists pronated.

3

Pause at the lockout, and reverse the motion to return to the starting position.

Verdict

Both exercises target the triceps. Bench Dips is a beginner exercise using bodyweight, while Chain Handle Extension is intermediate and uses other. Choose Bench Dips if you're looking for a more accessible option, or Chain Handle Extension for a greater challenge. Bench Dips is a compound movement working multiple joints, making it better for overall strength. Chain Handle Extension isolates the target muscle for focused development.

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