Even though guys lifted less weight per rep with dumbbells, they did more reps to make up for it, so the total weight lifted ended up being about the same for everyone.

Pro

Against

Evidence from Studies

Supporting (1)

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Chest Press Exercises With Different Stability Requirements Result in Similar Muscle Damage Recovery in Resistance-Trained Men

Randomized Controlled Trial

Human

2017 Jan

Even though each type of chest press used different weights, the study found that all three versions caused the same amount of muscle fatigue and recovery, meaning the total work done was basically the same.

Contradicting (0)

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No contradicting evidence found

Source Study

Chest Press Exercises With Different Stability Requirements Result in Similar Muscle Damage Recovery in Resistance-Trained Men

Score: 47

DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0000000000001453

Similar Assertions

No matter which chest press they used, the guys completed almost exactly the same number of reps in every set—showing they pushed just as hard regardless of equipment.

80%

When using dumbbells, guys had to use lighter weights per rep—about 18% less than with a barbell—to complete the same number of reps and total work.

78%

How much total weight you lift matters more for muscle damage than whether you use a barbell or dumbbells—even if one feels harder or heavier per rep.

73%

When trained men do different types of chest presses—using a machine, barbell, or dumbbells—their chest muscles and shoulder strength bounce back at about the same rate after a tough workout, no matter how stable the equipment is.

72%

After doing barbell chest presses, guys felt less ready to train again—even two days later—than after using dumbbells or a machine, meaning they needed an extra day to feel recovered.

72%