Incline bench

Set at an upward angle, an incline bench supports your back while placing your chest and shoulders above your hips. It usually has a padded backrest and seat, with several angle settings. You sit against it with your feet on the floor, and the firm support can help you feel stable while moving dumbbells in a controlled way.

You can use the bench for upper-body strength training, particularly movements that focus on your chest, shoulders and arms. With dumbbells, it supports pressing movements above your chest and wide, opening movements such as an incline fly. Changing the angle shifts how the movement feels, while the backrest gives you a consistent position from which to practise control.

It suits you if you want more support than standing or floor-based exercises provide and already feel comfortable handling dumbbells. The bench needs moderate floor space, plus clear room for your arms. Its angle is usually easy to adjust, but check that the backrest is locked before leaning on it. A sturdy chair can support seated dumbbell presses, though it will not create the same chest position.