Back to Journal
Training September 21, 2026 0:18

Straight Bar Dips for Upper Body Strength

A bodyweight move for strong arms and shoulders, with a little help from Arnold.

The exercise

In this clip Jane works on straight bar dips: pressing her body up from below the bar until her arms are straight, then lowering with control. It is a strong bodyweight movement for the triceps, chest and shoulders.

Why women should train upper body

Many women focus only on legs and glutes. A strong upper body improves your posture, helps you lift heavier in every other exercise, and gives your whole body a balanced, athletic shape.

How to build up to it

  • Start with bench dips or band-assisted dips.
  • Practise the lowering phase slowly.
  • Add reps before moving on to harder variations.

Get stronger with a plan

Jane includes upper body strength work in every client program. Book 1:1 personal training in Dubai to get started.

Video transcript

No spoken words. On screen: "If you are gonna wear gloves to the gym, just make sure they match your purse." Arnold Schwarzenegger.