Assessing the effect of stability, Goodman et al. (2008) found no difference in latissimus dorsi muscle activity when performing the free - weight bench press on a stable bench or Swiss ball. (strengthandconditioningresearch.com)
Comparing the effect of bench angle, Barnett et al. (1995) explored the difference in latissimus dorsi muscle activity between bench angles of 18 degrees below horizontal, 0 degrees (flat), 40 degrees and vertical. (strengthandconditioningresearch.com)
This research indicates that the latissimus dorsi displays superior muscle activity during the pull - up compared with the kipping pull - up. (strengthandconditioningresearch.com)