Barbell bench press
- Strength
- Intermediate
- Barbell
- Needs a bench
Muscles worked
Main: Chest · Also: Triceps, Shoulders
Measured in reps.
How to do it
- Lie on the bench with eyes under the bar, feet flat, shoulder blades pulled together.
- Unrack the bar and hold it over your chest with straight arms.
- Lower to your mid-chest under control.
- Press back up to straight arms.
Tip: Use safety arms or a spotter when lifting heavy.
Take extra care if…
- You have a current problem with your shoulders, wrists, elbows. This exercise puts load through them.
- Done lying on your back. This is not recommended during pregnancy for some of these, so check with your midwife or doctor.
General guidance only, not medical advice. Stop if anything hurts, and get advice from a doctor or qualified professional if pain continues.