Barbell Guillotine Bench Press
Description
The guillotine bench press (also called the neck press) is a flat bench press variation where the barbell is lowered to the neck/collarbone area rather than the mid-chest. This higher touch point creates a greater stretch on the pectoralis major — particularly the clavicular head — at the cost of increased shoulder stress. It requires excellent shoulder mobility.
Muscle Group
Equipment Required
Barbell Guillotine Bench Press Instructions
- Lie on a flat bench in a power rack with safety pins set just above neck level.
- Grip the bar slightly wider than standard bench press grip.
- Unrack the bar. Position it above your upper chest/neck area.
- Lower the bar toward your neck or collarbone — NOT your mid-chest.
- Flare your elbows wide (perpendicular to your body) as you lower.
- Lower until the bar is just above your neck (safety pins catch if needed).
- Press back up to lockout.
- Use lighter weight than standard bench press. Stop immediately if you feel shoulder pain.
Barbell Guillotine Bench Press Form & Visual
Barbell Guillotine Bench Press Benefits
- Greater pec stretch than standard bench press
- Emphasizes the clavicular (upper) pec
- Builds upper chest size
- Useful variation for advanced lifters with good shoulders
- Different stimulus from standard pressing
- Named for the bar path toward the neck
Barbell Guillotine Bench Press Muscles Worked
- Pectoralis major (especially upper/clavicular)
- Anterior deltoid (increased demand)
- Triceps brachii
- Serratus anterior
Barbell Guillotine Bench Press Variations & Alternatives
- Barbell Bench Press (standard)
- Barbell Incline Bench Press
- Dumbbell Bench Press
- Smith Guillotine Press (safer)
- Wide-Grip Bench Press
