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Charles glass, widely regarded as the “Godfather of Bodybuilding,” has spent decades honing his craft as a top-tier fitness coach. His expertise has shaped some of the most iconic figures in the sport, including legends like Dexter Jackson and Flex Wheeler. In a recent YouTube video released on December 9, 2024, glass shared his insights on mastering the high incline bench press to target and grow the upper pecs—a technique that has been a cornerstone of his training philosophy.
Glass’s meticulous approach to training has made him a go-to coach for elite athletes and celebrities alike. His roster of clients includes the late Shawn Rhoden, Dennis James, Chris Cormier, and even Hollywood stars like Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and Hulk Hogan. Through his proprietary methods, Glass has consistently helped individuals achieve thier peak physical potential, whether on the Olympia stage or the silver screen.
Mastering the Incline Bench: A Key to Upper Pectoral growth
For Glass, the incline bench press is the foundation of building remarkable upper pecs. In his video, he emphasized the importance of adjusting the bench angle to maximize results. “I always start out with incline because I’m trying to build more upper pec,” Glass explained.”I like to do it a lot steeper than most people.”
Unlike many trainers who prefer a lower incline angle for greater power and weightlifting capacity, Glass advocates for a steeper angle—typically above 45 degrees. this adjustment shifts the focus to the upper chest, ensuring that the muscle is targeted effectively. “Most people like it below 45 [degrees] as they have more power and they can push more,” he noted, “but they are not really working that top part of that pec.”
Glass’s method has been a game-changer for athletes like Dexter Jackson and Flex Wheeler, both of whom have credited his techniques for their success on the Olympia stage. By prioritizing the upper pecs, glass’s approach not only enhances aesthetics but also improves overall chest growth, making it a must-try for aspiring bodybuilders and fitness enthusiasts alike.
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“I always start out with incline as I’m trying to build more upper pec. I like to do it a lot steeper than most people.”
— Charles Glass
Whether you’re a seasoned bodybuilder or just starting your fitness journey, Charles Glass’s insights on the incline bench press offer a proven path to upper pec development. With his decades of experience and a client list that reads like a who’s who of the fitness world, Glass continues to be a beacon of knowledge and inspiration for athletes worldwide.
Charles Glass Reveals the Secret to Building Thick Upper Pecs with a Higher Incline Bench Press
Renowned fitness coach Charles Glass has shared a game-changing tip for maximizing chest development, emphasizing the importance of a higher incline bench press. Glass, known for his expertise in bodybuilding and coaching top athletes, recently detailed how this technique can target the upper pecs more effectively.
“In order to work that top part,it has to be a little higher,” Glass explained during a recent workout presentation.
While acknowledging that some shoulder involvement is inevitable at this angle, Glass stressed that the upper pecs receive the most stimulation. He emphasized the importance of adjusting the bench to a higher incline to achieve optimal results.
“Of course, you’ll get some shoulder involvement, but the thing of it is indeed, you work that upper pec so much and if you do it right, you work from here all the way across [the chest] to where you have the lower, you’re working down here [lower on the pec line]. That part never gets worked. But if you look at most of my clients, we have a higher incline,” he saeid.
Glass highlighted that his clients, including Cormier, Wheeler, Rico McClinton, Dexter Jackson, and Aaron Baker, all benefited from this higher-incline approach. He noted that these athletes developed impressive upper pecs consequently.
“They all have real thick upper pecs,cormier,Flex Wheeler,Rico McClinton,Dexter Jackson,Aaron Baker,they all had really good upper pec. And we never did it low. What I mean by low, for me, that’s low [below 45 degrees]. You can handle a lot more weight that way.”
“Top shelf you got to go higher.”
This isn’t the first time Glass has shared his insights on chest training. Earlier, he demonstrated a two-week workout plan designed to tone the chest using just six exercises. His detailed breakdown covered everything from setup to execution, offering a thorough guide for building a powerful chest.
With decades of experience coaching top-level athletes in the Men’s Open division, Glass remains a trusted source of knowledge for the bodybuilding community. His latest tip on the higher incline bench press is a must-try for anyone looking to enhance their chest development.
Related: ‘Godfather of Bodybuilding’ Charles Glass Names Best Protein Source and #1 Exercise to Build Muscle
Watch the full video from the SPASE YouTube channel below:
In sculpting some of the most iconic physiques in bodybuilding, recently sat down with our Senior Editor to discuss his approach to building thick upper pecs and why he believes the higher incline bench press is a key component of success.
The Importance of the Higher Incline Bench Press
Senior Editor: Charles, you’ve worked with some of the greatest bodybuilders in history, including Dexter Jackson and Flex Wheeler. What’s your secret to helping them achieve such remarkable upper pec growth?
Charles Glass: Well,it all starts with the incline bench press. I always start out with incline as I’m trying to build more upper pec. I like to do it a lot steeper than most people. Most people like it below 45 degrees because thay have more power and can push more weight, but they’re not really working that top part of the pec. By going higher, you’re targeting the upper chest more effectively.
why the Angle Matters
Senior Editor: You mentioned that you prefer a steeper angle. Can you explain why this makes such a difference?
Charles Glass: Absolutely. When you go higher,say above 45 degrees,you’re shifting the focus to the upper chest. This is crucial because most people neglect this area. By targeting the upper pecs, you not only enhance the aesthetics of the chest but also promote overall chest growth. It’s a small adjustment, but it makes a big difference in the long run.
The Impact on Athletes like dexter Jackson and Flex Wheeler
Senior Editor: You’ve worked with Dexter Jackson and Flex wheeler, both of whom are known for thier unbelievable upper pecs. How has this technique helped them?
Charles Glass: Dexter and Flex are prime examples of what can be achieved with the right approach. By focusing on the higher incline bench press, we were able to build their upper pecs to a level that really stood out on stage. It’s not just about lifting heavy; it’s about lifting smart and targeting the right areas. This technique has been a cornerstone of their success.
A Must-Try for Aspiring Bodybuilders
Senior editor: For someone just starting out or looking to improve their chest development,what advice would you give?
Charles Glass: I would say,start with the higher incline bench press. Don’t be afraid to go steeper than you’re used to. It might feel different at first, but the results will speak for themselves. Combine this with a well-rounded training program and you’ll see significant improvements in your upper pec development.
Final Thoughts
Senior Editor: Charles, thank you for sharing your insights. It’s clear that your approach to the higher incline bench press has had a profound impact on the bodybuilding community.
Charles Glass: My pleasure. It’s all about helping people achieve their best selves, whether they’re on the Olympia stage or in the gym working towards their personal goals.
Charles Glass’s expertise and dedication to the sport of bodybuilding continue to inspire athletes worldwide. His latest tip on the higher incline bench press is a must-try for anyone looking to enhance their chest development and take their physique to the next level.
