Guillotine press

The Guillotine Press is a unique bench press variation that targets the upper chest. It involves bringing the bar down to your collarbone or neck, with the elbows flared out quite widely. This movement is distinct from the typical bench press due to its focus on the upper chest and the distinctive bar path that comes closer to the neck. It was popularized by old bodybuilders and has been highlighted again for its effectiveness in activating the upper chest on a flat bench 1.

The Guillotine Press can be an effective exercise for targeting the upper chest muscles and is known for its ability to activate these muscles more intensely compared to incline presses. However, it is essential to use this exercise with a lower weight than usual due to the increased load on the shoulder joint and to maintain proper form to avoid potential injuries 2.

It's crucial that the exercise is performed with good shoulder mobility and adequate stability. If you lack shoulder mobility or are new to lifting, it might be beneficial to focus on other, less demanding chest exercises before incorporating the Guillotine Press into your routine 2. Always ensure that your training approach is balanced and caters to your individual capabilities and goals.