This type of exercise equipment facilitates a chest press movement where the handles, and thus the user’s hands, move on converging arcs, meeting at a point in front of the chest. This contrasts with traditional equipment where the motion follows a fixed, parallel path. An example would be a machine with two independent lever arms pivoting inwards.
The converging motion is believed to mimic natural pressing movements more closely, potentially offering enhanced muscle fiber recruitment across the pectoral muscles and improved strength gains. This design also aims to reduce stress on shoulder joints by allowing for a more natural range of motion. The development of such equipment reflects a broader trend in fitness equipment design towards promoting biomechanically sound exercises.