Exercise guide
Lever Graviton Assisted Dip
- Beginner
- Compound
- Rep-based
- Back
- Chest
- Upper arms
The assisted dip is a foundational compound movement that uses a counterweight to help you build strength in the chest, triceps, and front deltoids. It allows for a full range of motion and perfect form, making it ideal for beginners transitioning toward bodyweight dips.
Reviewed by the Crucible team · Updated June 2026
Muscles worked
Setup
- Select a weight on the stack; remember that a heavier weight provides more assistance.
- Place your knees or feet firmly on the padded platform and grasp the handles with a neutral grip (palms facing in).
- Step or kneel onto the platform one leg at a time until your arms are fully extended and supporting your weight.
- Engage your core and pull your shoulder blades down and back to create a stable base.
How to do it
- Inhale and slowly lower your body by bending the elbows until your upper arms are at least parallel to the floor.
- Keep your elbows tucked slightly toward your ribs rather than flaring them out wide.
- Exhale as you drive through your palms to push your body back up to the starting position.
- Maintain a controlled 2-0-2 tempo, avoiding any bouncing or momentum at the bottom of the rep.
Form checklist
- Keep your chest up and avoid letting your shoulders cave forward.
- Stop the descent when your elbows reach a 90-degree angle to protect the shoulder joints.
- Maintain a slight forward lean to emphasize the chest, or stay upright to focus on the triceps.
- Do not lock out your elbows aggressively at the top of the movement.
Pro tips
- Think about 'driving the handles through the floor' to maximize the mind-muscle connection in your pectorals.
- Focus on a slow 3-second eccentric (lowering) phase to build more stability and muscle control.
Make it harder
- Gradually reduce the assistance weight by 5-10 lbs each week to progress toward unassisted dips.
- Add a 2-second pause at the bottom of the movement to remove the stretch reflex and increase intensity.
Frequently asked
- What muscles does the lever graviton assisted dip work?
- The lever graviton assisted dip primarily targets the triceps, and also works the abs and serratus anterior as secondary muscles.
- What equipment do you need for the lever graviton assisted dip?
- The lever graviton assisted dip uses leverage machine.
- Is the lever graviton assisted dip good for beginners?
- Yes. The lever graviton assisted dip is a beginner-friendly movement and a strong foundation to build on.