An Investigation of the Mechanics and Sticking Region of a One-Repetition Maximum Close-Grip Bench Press versus the Traditional Bench Press.

Alyssa Stage,Fabrice Risso,Samantha Birmingham-Babauta,Matthew Moreno,Deshaun Davis,Tricia Liu,Dominic Giuliano,John Stokes,Ashley Orjalo,Adrina Lazar,Robert Lockie,Samuel Callaghan

doi:10.3390/sports5030046

Abstract

The close-grip bench press (CGBP) is a variation of the traditional bench press (TBP) that uses a narrower grip (~95% of biacromial distance (BAD)) and has potential application for athletes performing explosive arm actions from positions where the hands are held close to the torso. Limited research has investigated CGBP mechanics compared to the TBP. Twenty-seven resistance-trained individuals completed a one-repetition maximum TBP and CGBP. The TBP was performed with the preferred grip; the CGBP with a grip width of 95% BAD. A linear position transducer measured lift distance and duration; peak and mean power, velocity, and force; distance and time when peak power occurred; and work. Pre-sticking region (PrSR), sticking region, and post-sticking region distance and duration for each lift was measured. A repeated measures ANOVA was used to derive differences between TBP and CGBP mechanics (p < 0.01); effect sizes (d) were also calculated. A greater load was lifted in the TBP, thus mean force was greater (d = 0.16–0.17). Peak power and velocity were higher in the CGBP, which had a longer PrSR distance (d = 0.49–1.32). The CGBP could emphasize power for athletes that initiate explosive upper-body actions with the hands positioned close to the torso.

Highlights

The bench press is one of the foundation exercises used to develop upper-body pushing strength [1,2,3]
There was a very large, significant difference in the grip width adopted between the traditional bench press (TBP) and close-grip bench press (CGBP), which was to be expected
There were no significant differences in lift distance or duration between the TBP and CGBP

Summary

Introduction

The bench press is one of the foundation exercises used to develop upper-body pushing strength [1,2,3]. This exercise is customarily performed from a supine position on a bench, with a barbell held above the chest with extended arms. The grip width adopted in the TBP with a barbell is usually a preferred width where the individual feels they can lift the greatest load. This will generally mean that the hands are positioned on the bar in a position

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Conclusion