Stefan
Level 4 Valued Member
I used to do a lot of dips before I took up powerlifting. I did all rep ranges, from tons of bodyweight to heavy (i.e., 1-3RM). I also teach clients who want to use minimal equipment to do them.
A few things on form: Pavel is of course on the money. Other things I do is keep the shoulders away from the ears and turning the pits of the elbows forward... Similar to how one should perform a pushup by the way.
Another thing that made all the difference to me is to include overhead kettlebell work, I did either snatches or presses. These don't have to be heavy or even exhausting. It always does wonders for my shoulders. In fact, I use that now too if my shoulders feel beat up. Dumbbells and barbells don't have the same effect.
Dips are among the best movements out there so don't be scared off by people who say they're bad for you. There are many who do them without problems. Don't rush and get used to them over time. After a while you might want to try and incorporate ring dips, which provides a very different challenge.
Good luck.
A few things on form: Pavel is of course on the money. Other things I do is keep the shoulders away from the ears and turning the pits of the elbows forward... Similar to how one should perform a pushup by the way.
Another thing that made all the difference to me is to include overhead kettlebell work, I did either snatches or presses. These don't have to be heavy or even exhausting. It always does wonders for my shoulders. In fact, I use that now too if my shoulders feel beat up. Dumbbells and barbells don't have the same effect.
Dips are among the best movements out there so don't be scared off by people who say they're bad for you. There are many who do them without problems. Don't rush and get used to them over time. After a while you might want to try and incorporate ring dips, which provides a very different challenge.
Good luck.
