Barbell Bench Press (power lift)
The Barbell Bench Press (power lift) primarily works the Pectoralis Major (Sternal), with secondary activation of the Anterior Deltoid, Brachialis, Pectoralis Major (Clavicular), Triceps (Long Head) and stabilizer support from the Biceps Brachii (Short Head), Erector Spinae, Gluteus Maximus. It is a barbell compound exercise at intermediate difficulty.
The Barbell Bench Press (power lift) is a intermediate compound exercise performed with barbell, following a horizontal push movement pattern. It primarily targets the Pectoralis Major (Sternal), with secondary engagement of the Anterior Deltoid, Brachialis, Pectoralis Major (Clavicular), Triceps (Long Head). This is a bilateral pushing movement, meaning both sides work together to generate force.
A barbell compound push exercise targeting the Pectoralis Major (Sternal).
| Equipment | Barbell |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Type | Compound |
| Movement | Horizontal Push |
| Force | Push |
| Laterality | Bilateral |
| Primary | Pectoralis Major (Sternal) |
| Secondary | Anterior Deltoid, Brachialis, Pectoralis Major (Clavicular), Triceps (Long Head) |
Muscles Worked
The Pectoralis Major (Sternal) is the primary mover, taking on the bulk of the workload throughout the full range of motion. The Anterior Deltoid, Brachialis, Pectoralis Major (Clavicular), and Triceps (Long Head) act as secondary movers, assisting the primary muscles and contributing meaningfully to the overall output. The Biceps Brachii (Short Head), Erector Spinae, Gluteus Maximus act as stabilizers, maintaining joint position and postural alignment throughout the movement.
Primary Muscles
- Primary Muscle Pectoralis Major (Sternal) (chest)
Secondary Muscles
- Secondary Muscle Anterior Deltoid (shoulders)
- Secondary Muscle Brachialis (biceps)
- Secondary Muscle Pectoralis Major (Clavicular) (chest)
- Secondary Muscle Triceps (Long Head) (triceps)
Stabilizer Muscles
- Stabilizer Muscle Biceps Brachii (Short Head) (biceps)
- Stabilizer Muscle Erector Spinae (back)
- Stabilizer Muscle Gluteus Maximus (glutes)
How to Perform
Preparation
- Lie supine on bench.
- Grasp bar with overhand and slightly wider than shoulder width grip.
- Arch back, extend hips, and position feet back flat on floor.
- Dismount barbell from rack over chest.
Execution
- Lower weight to lower chest.
- Press bar upward until arms are extended.
- Repeat.
Comments
- Competitive lifting requires bar to make contact with chest above bottom of the sternum with momentary pause.
- Gluteus Maximus, Erector Spinae, Quadriceps, and other muscles may be considered significant stabilizers during actual powerlift.
Tips & Common Mistakes
- Brace your core and keep your feet flat for a stable base throughout the movement.
- Control the descent — don't let the weight drop or bounce at the bottom.
- Keep your elbows at roughly 45–75° from your torso to protect your shoulder joints.
Programming Suggestions
Adapt your sets and reps to your training goal.
| Strength | 3–5 sets × 3–6 reps at 80–90% 1RM with 2–4 minutes rest. |
|---|---|
| Hypertrophy | 3–5 sets × 6–12 reps at 65–80% 1RM with 60–120 seconds rest. |
| Endurance | 2–4 sets × 15–20 reps at 50–65% 1RM with 30–60 seconds rest. |
Alternative Exercises
These exercises target the same primary muscles (Pectoralis Major (Sternal)) and can be substituted based on your equipment or variation preferences.
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