A chest dip machine is a piece of exercise equipment with two parallel metal bars approximately shoulder-width apart. The apparatus is used to perform a popular exercise called "dips." Dips are a compound bodyweight exercise that works the triceps, chest and shoulders. The exercise is performed by gripping the parallel bars with the hands and lowering the body to the desired depth--the "dip"--then pushing the body back up. It is similar to a push up, only in a vertical position, and using bars instead of the ground for stability. This versatile exercise has two distinct variations. The tricep dip requires a straighter posture, with the elbows locked in close to the sides. The dipping motion stops when the upper arms are parallel to the floor or slightly below, then the body is returned to the original position where the arms lock out. For the chest dip, leaning forward with the elbows somewhat flared out from the body targets the muscles of the lower chest. Dips are a great exercise that requires very little equipment.
What to Look for
There are many variations and sizes of chest dip machines. Some units combine several components to accommodate dips, chin-ups and leg raises. Dip and pull-up machines are very common and some come with weighted assist platforms that brace your knees if you are unable to use your full bodyweight. Dip machines can also come in the form of plate-loaded units where you sit and press against the selected resistance to simulate the movement of the exercise. One useful accessory is a dip belt, which has a chain from which you can hang weights to increase the resistance. Chest dip machines can be found at sporting goods stores, fitness retailers and online. NewYorkBarbells.com has an extensive selection at very reasonable prices. You can expect to pay anywhere between $80 to well over $500, depending on the size of the unit. For $80 you can get a self-standing dip machine with no accessories. The assistance dip machines cost considerably more.
Common Pitfalls
Make sure to match the chest dip machine to your personal needs and goals. The small dip machines are just as effective as others and are ideal for saving space in a home gym. Always choose the unit that fits in your allocated space. Dips are a simple exercise that is very frequently performed incorrectly. Consult with a personal trainer or visit the exercise guide at Bodybuilding.com. As part of a healthy exercise regimen, dips are an outstanding way to build upper body strength with very little equipment other than your own body.
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