Are you tired of putting in the time and effort at the gym but not seeing any real results? Have you been bench pressing with improper form, leading to injuries and lackluster gains? Fear not, my dear readers, for I have the solution to all your problems: proper bench press form. But, as usual, I know deep down that my advice will fall on deaf ears. You’ll continue to make the same mistakes, hindering your progress, and frustrating yourself to no end. But I am obligated to give it nonetheless.
First things first: let’s talk about the importance of proper form. Not only does it prevent injuries, but it also ensures that you’re targeting the correct muscles. For the bench press, correct form means bracing your core, keeping your feet planted firmly on the ground, and retracting your shoulder blades, creating a tight, stable foundation for the movement. It also means bringing the bar down to your sternum, not your neck, and pressing it back up in a straight line towards the ceiling.
But of course, none of you will listen to me. You’ll load up the bar with too much weight, arch your back excessively, and bounce the bar off your chest, risking shoulder and pec tears. Or, you’ll let your ego get the best of you and try to bench press without a spotter, later to get stuck under the bar and suffer a humiliating and potentially dangerous situation.
I know this because I’ve seen it all before. I’ve seen the way some of you try to half-rep your way through your sets, not even bothering to go through a full range of motion. I’ve seen the way you grit your teeth and push past your limits, willing to sacrifice form and safety for a couple of extra reps. My heart sinks every time I see it happen.
So, what can you do to avoid these mistakes? Well, for starters, stop pretending like you know it all and swallow your pride. Seek out a qualified fitness professional who can guide you through the proper technique and share their knowledge with you. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from someone who knows more than you do. And, most importantly, practice proper form every time you bench press, even if it means lowering the weight you’re using.
In conclusion, I know that most of you will ignore my words of wisdom and continue to make the same mistakes. But for those of you who are willing to put in the time and effort to master the art of bench pressing with proper form, I promise you’ll see massive gains and fewer injuries. Don’t let your ego get in the way of your progress. Listen to your body and practice good form. It’s that simple.