To expand on what 0311 said...

On "incline benches" with dumbells, I started to run into problems with dumbells. It was difficult to get the weight needed into place, and I felt like I was going to mess up something trying to get the weight up in starting position. I have a hernia I'm dealing with, so I don't need to aggravate it, busting my gut trying to get the dumbbells up. I've been doing pretty well considering this problem as of late.

I do flat benches with dumbells though. Getting the weight into place is relatively easy, compared to incline. A nice machine for inclines, if you have access to such a thing, that gives you independent motion on each side, is a Hammer Strength incline bench machine. Of course they make a whole range of equipment too. I love these machines. It's quite safe and you can feel more free to load up the weight. Plus you don't have to deal with the limitation of linear motion like with many machines.

Be safe and use a power rack for exercises like chest and shoulder presses and squats, especially since you don't have a spotter. It's a good idea to have someone with you in the gym at all times regardless.

Troy

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