Barbell Bench Press

A classic compound lift for building upper-body strength.

One of the most recognized strength exercises, the barbell bench press develops upper-body pushing power. It’s a staple in most programs for size, strength, and stability.

Instructions

  1. Lie on a flat bench with a medium-width grip on the bar.
  2. Unrack the barbell and hold it straight above your chest with arms locked.
  3. Inhale as you lower the bar slowly to mid-chest level.
  4. Press the bar back up as you exhale, squeezing your chest at the top.
  5. Lower under control and repeat. Re-rack when finished.