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MOVEMENT GUIDE / BARBELL AND BENCH

Barbell bench press

Use a spotter or safeties, plant feet, lower to a controlled touch point and press without bouncing.

Barbell bench press — illustrative movement reference

Target muscles

Pectorals, anterior shoulders and triceps

Setup

Set shoulders comfortably and keep feet planted or body supported.

Perform the move

Use a spotter or safeties, plant feet, lower to a controlled touch point and press without bouncing. Return slowly to the starting position. Keep breathing and stop if the movement causes pain.

Why use it?

Improve horizontal pushing strength.

Common mistake

Bouncing the bar or losing shoulder control.

Alternative

Dumbbell bench press

TECHNIQUE REFERENCEOpen National Academy of Sports Medicine

Opens the publisher’s original page. Use your session’s written prescription for sets and repetitions.

Exercise within a comfortable range. Stop if a movement causes pain.

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