The bench press is a compound exercise that works multiple muscles in the upper body, including the chest, shoulders, and arms. The primary muscles worked during a bench press are the pectoralis major and minor, which are responsible for doing the most work. The front deltoids, which are triangular muscles that help the arms move forward, are also a prime mover in the bench press. The triceps brachii, which are located on the back of the upper arm, are also heavily involved in the exercise. Other muscles that are activated during the bench press include the biceps, serratus anterior, upper back muscles, forearms, and lats. The specific muscles worked during a bench press can vary depending on the variation of the exercise. For example, a narrower grip bench press will put extra emphasis on the triceps and forearms.