5 Exercises to Build Bigger Pecs

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Welcome to The Ripped Report! Here’s what we’ve got for you today: 

• How Martin Fitzwater is growing his pecs for the 2025 season

• A breakdown of the devil press for enhanced functional fitness 

• How to perform cable lateral raises like a pro bodybuilder

BODYBUILDING

Chest Gains 

A change of scenery can often do wonders for improving workout performance and achieving new gains. Men’s Open bodybuilder Martin Fitzwater is embracing this philosophy as he works to climb higher in the Olympia rankings after securing fourth place in 2024. Currently training abroad in Europe, Fitzwater is focusing on building a stronger chest to boost his chances in future competitions.

To maximize his progress, Fitzwater has incorporated five targeted chest exercises into his routine, aimed at enhancing muscle activation and precise fiber engagement. His program emphasizes machine-based movements, including the incline press and flyes, which allow for controlled and effective isolation.

During the flyes, Fitzwater ensures his shoulders are pulled back to better engage the chest muscles, activating additional fibers for optimal growth. Want more chest-training hacks from one of the top current pros? Click below.

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WORKOUT

Exercise Your Demons 

Building muscle and improving aesthetics are common gym goals, but prioritizing functional fitness is equally vital for enhancing your overall fitness. Functional fitness focuses on developing mobility, strength, endurance, stability, and core power — key components that improve how you move and perform daily activities.

One standout functional exercise is the devil’s press, a dynamic, full-body movement that merges two powerful exercises: the burpee and the dumbbell snatch. In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about mastering the devil’s press, including proper form, recommended sets and reps, common mistakes to avoid, variations, and effective alternatives.

TRAINING TIPS

Delts for Days 

Looking to build a more defined V-taper? Take a page from professional bodybuilder John Jewett’s playbook. Focused on enhancing his medial delts, Jewett relies on the cable lateral raise as a cornerstone of his training routine. This exercise is key to creating broad, capped shoulders that contribute to a balanced, symmetrical physique with standout width.

However, mastering the cable lateral raise requires precision. Proper setup, grip, and form are crucial to avoid mistakes and maximize results. Jewett’s detailed guide dives into the nuances of this movement, including techniques like reaching across the body to achieve a fuller range of motion. Follow his insights to elevate your shoulder development and refine your physique.

THE DROP SET 

• The 2025 Tampa Pro took place over the weekend and qualified eight athletes for this year’s Olympia. Check out the full results, including a big upset in the Men’s Open division.

• 212 Olympia champ Keone Pearson joined forces with Men’s Open athlete Rafael Brandão to attack their lower body. Try their leg workout for more pronounced hamstrings. 

• The pin press is a killer move if you’re looking to blow up your triceps. Here’s how to do it the right way.

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