Bench Press | How to Perform Bench Press | Powerlift Pro App

Performing a bench press is a fundamental exercise for developing upper body strength, primarily targeting the chest, shoulders, and triceps. Here’s a simple explanation of how to perform a standard bench press:

Set up:
Lie flat on a bench with your eyes aligned with the barbell.
Position your feet firmly on the ground, creating a stable base. Your knees should be at a 90-degree angle.
Arch your upper back slightly and keep your shoulder blades retracted and in contact with the bench throughout the movement.

Grip:
Reach up and grip the barbell with an overhand grip or an underhand grip, slightly wider than shoulder-width apart.
Ensure that your hands are balanced and symmetrical on the bar.

Unrack:
Take a deep breath, engage your core, and brace your abs.
Lift the barbell off the rack with the help of a spotter or by yourself if you’re confident.
Hold the barbell with your arms extended directly above your chest, ensuring that it is stable and balanced.

Descending Phase:
Lower the barbell towards your chest in a controlled manner, maintaining proper form and control.
Keep your elbows tucked close to your body as you lower the barbell. This helps engage the chest muscles effectively.
Aim to bring the barbell to your mid to lower chest, depending on your comfort and range of motion.

Ascending Phase:
Push through your palms, engaging your chest, shoulders, and triceps, to press the barbell back up to the starting position.
Keep your elbows tucked in and avoid excessive flaring outward.
Fully extend your arms at the top of the movement, but avoid locking out your elbows completely.

Repeat:
Complete the desired number of repetitions, maintaining proper form and control throughout each repetition.
If you’re using a heavier weight, it’s recommended to have a spotter present for safety.
Remember the following additional tips when performing the bench press:

Maintain a stable base with your feet firmly planted on the ground and your shoulders, upper back, and glutes in contact with the bench.
Keep your core engaged throughout the movement to maintain stability and prevent excessive arching of the lower back.
Avoid bouncing the bar off your chest during the descent or using momentum to complete the lift. Focus on a smooth and controlled movement.
Start with lighter weights to ensure proper form and gradually increase the load as you become more comfortable and stronger.
If you have any concerns about your form or safety, consult with a fitness professional or trainer who can provide personalized guidance and ensure you’re performing the exercise correctly.
The bench press is a versatile exercise that can be modified with variations in grip width, bar path, and equipment used. It’s essential to practice proper form and technique while gradually increasing the load to maximize the benefits of this exercise.

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