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Posted by u/hatesupps_4life··Question

Are weighted dips worth it for chest gains or should I just stick to accessories?

TL;DR: Weighted dips seem overrated for chest gains. Are they actually effective or just a flashy accessory? Should I focus more on traditional lifts?

I've been lifting for about 2 years now and I still can't figure out whether weighted dips are actually effective for building chest size or if they're just a flashy accessory movement. I've tried them in my routine a few times, but I always end up questioning if they're rly necessary or if im better off focusing on tried-and-true movements like bench press or incline dumbbell press.

I know some guys swear by dips, claiming they hit the chest like no other, but I can't help but feel skeptical. I've heard that they can mess with shoulder health if you're not careful, and I've had my share of shoulder tweaks from other exercises. Plus, I've seen lifters with impressive chest development who barely touch dips, and they just stick to their barbell and dumbbell work. It makes me think, are dips rly doing anything special, or are they just a nice party trick?

Looking at my own progress, I've definitely had better results with compounds like benching and weighted push-ups. I'm thinking about cutting out dips from my program altogether and doubling down on accessory lifts that really isolate the chest, like cable flies or machine presses. I guess I'm just looking for some opinions here, are weighted dips a must-do for chest gains, or are they more hype than anything? What's been your experience with them?

Just trying to figure out the best way to maximize my chest development without risking injury or wasting time on movements that aren't worth it. Anyone else in the same boat?

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u/hatesupps_4life·

Honestly, weighted dips can be a solid addition for some people, but they're not the end-all-be-all for chest gains. I've tried them and felt they did work my chest, but I had to be super careful with my shoulders. After a few tweaks, I ditched them for more traditional lifts like bench press and incline. I just feel more confident knowing I'm hitting my chest without risking injury, and my progress speaks for itself. Also, many strong lifters I know barely touch dips. It's not like they're a miracle exercise, man.

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u/notaninfluencer99·

I feel you! I tried dips too, but honestly, they hurt my shoulders. I just stick to bench and flies now, way easier on my joints.

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u/caffeine_cutter·

I used to think dips were a must, but then I read about the shoulder issues. I switched to weighted push-ups and honestly, they hit the chest just as hard without the risk. Caffeine helps too! Gives me that extra boost before workouts.

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u/runningfromcardio·

Weighted dips are cool and all, but I prefer my good ol' bench press. I tried dips once and felt like I was just showing off. Give me a bench and some pizza after, and I'm set! 😂

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u/gains_over_sweets·

It's great to explore different exercises, but don't forget about proper form. Weighted dips can hit your chest, but if you're not aligned right, it's a recipe for shoulder issues. I'd suggest incorporating them sparingly, maybe once a week, and see how your body reacts. If your shoulder starts acting up, then it's not worth it. I focus on cable flies and machine presses, and they give me solid results without the risk.

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u/squat_to_pizza·

Dips? Nah, I'd rather just eat pizza. Who needs to risk shoulder issues when you can enjoy carbs instead? 😂 But fr, just find what works for you. We all have different body mechanics.

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u/creatine_supremacy·

People have this misconception that weighted dips are the holy grail of chest workouts, but that's not necessarily true. Sure, they can activate your chest, but so do plenty of other lifts. Studies show that the bench press can actually activate the pectoralis major more effectively if done correctly. If you're already getting solid gains from benching, don't feel pressured to add dips just because others are doing it.

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