How important is Decline bench?

[Dukkit]

very important

mine has grown well since adding declines

[Narkissos]

very important

mine has grown well since adding declines

Ditto.

A couple of different studies suggest that muscle recruitment is higher in the decline bench as compared to the incline bench.

e.g. http://www.edulife.com.br/dados%5CAr...20Peitoral.pdf

^^The above study suggests that the 'upper pec' recruitment is similar between the two exercises... making the the decline bench a more productive exercise.

...particularly where upper pec mass is concerned.

I do most of my work on a 30-degree decline right now.

I seldom do inclines any more.

Sometimes I use the flat press as a secondary movement.

Sometimes I don't use it at all.