


Description:
The Bench Press is a classic exercise that works multiple muscle groups, including the chest, shoulders, and triceps. It’s a staple exercise in many training programs and is considered one of the best exercises for building upper body strength and muscle mass.
Benefits:
- Builds chest muscle mass and strength.
- Develops triceps and shoulder muscles.
- Enhances upper body power and endurance.
- Improves overall upper body aesthetics.
Profile:
Equipment: | Barbell |
Type: | Free Weights |
Tempo: | 3-1-1-0 |
Level: | Intermediate |
Muscles:

Primary Muscles
- Pectoralis Major (Chest)
Secondary Muscles
- Triceps Brachii (Triceps)
- Deltoids (Shoulders)
Classification:
Utility: | Basic |
Mechanics: | Compound |
Force: | Push |
Instructions:
- Step 1: Start by lying on a flat bench with your feet flat on the floor.
- Step 2: Grasp the barbell with a grip that is slightly wider than shoulder-width apart.
- Step 3: Unrack the barbell by lifting it off the rack and bringing it straight over your chest.
- Step 4: Lower the barbell slowly towards your chest, keeping your elbows tucked in close to your body.
- Step 5: Pause briefly when the barbell is an inch or two above your chest.
- Step 6: Push the barbell back up to the starting position, using the power of your chest and triceps.
- Repeat the movement for the desired number of repetitions.
Common Mistakes:
- Bouncing the weight
- Using momentum
- Lifting the hips
- Moving the legs
Variations:
- Barbell Flat Bench Press
- Dumbbell Flat Bench Press
- Close-grip Bench Press
- Barbell Incline Bench Press
- Barbell Decline Bench Press
- Board Press
- Pause Bench
- Spoto Press
- Cambered Bar Bench Press
- Cambered Bar Incline Bench Press
Links to each will be provided as they are added to the website.
Safety Tips:
- Use a spotter: Always have a spotter on hand when lifting heavy weights, to help you with the lift-off and to be able to assist you in case of failure.
- Warm-up: Always warm-up and stretch before performing bench press or any other heavy exercise, this will help to prevent injury and improve your performance.
- Use proper form: Use the proper form at all times to avoid injury and to get the most out of the exercise.
- Start light: Start with a lighter weight and gradually increase it as you get stronger and more comfortable with the movement.
- If you have any pain or discomfort, stop the exercise and speak with a trainer.
Additional Information:
The bench press is considered a great exercise for building upper-body strength and muscle mass and should be a part of any upper-body workout. Incorporating different variations of bench press and working a variety of degrees can help to target specific muscle groups, increase the difficulty and provide a balanced upper body workout.