How to Use a Piano Bench for Dumbbells

A piano bench can provide an alternative for a weight bench. One of the main benefits of using a bench for your dumbbell workouts is the increased range of motion for your movements. For example, instead of lying with your elbows on the floor during a chest press, you begin with your elbows below your body for a complete range of motion when you lie on the bench.

Things You'll Need

  • Aerobic step (optional)
  • Exercise mat (optional)
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Research the weight limit of your piano bench so you do not exceed it with your body weight plus the weight of the dumbbells.

    • 2

      Securely tighten the legs of the bench so your bench is stable. Place it in an area free of clutter so you have enough room to move your arms and legs.

    • 3

      Use your bench to lie face up and perform dumbbell exercises such as the bench press, chest fly, chest pullovers and lying triceps extensions. Bend your knees and place your feet flat on the floor, or on top of a box or aerobic step, if your feet do not reach the floor. Place an exercise mat on top of the bench if it is uncomfortable on your back.

    • 4

      Kneel next to your piano bench and rest your arms on the bench for exercises such as wrist curls that flex and extend your wrists.

    • 5

      Sit on the piano bench with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor for dumbbell movements such as shoulder presses, arm curls and overhead triceps extensions.

    • 6

      Stand next to the bench and place one knee and one hand on top of it as you bend slightly to perform the dumbbell row with your other arm.