Exercise technique

barbell wide bench press

The barbell wide bench press is a compound strength exercise targeting the pectoral muscles, with secondary emphasis on the shoulders and triceps. It requires a barbell and a bench, and involves lowering the barbell to the chest with a wide grip before pressing it back up.

How do you perform this exercise?

  1. Lie flat on a bench with your feet flat on the ground and your back pressed against the bench.
  2. Grasp the barbell with a wide grip, slightly wider than shoulder-width apart.
  3. Lift the barbell off the rack and hold it directly above your chest with your arms fully extended.
  4. Lower the barbell slowly towards your chest, keeping your elbows slightly flared out.
  5. Pause for a moment when the barbell touches your chest, then push it back up to the starting position.
  6. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

Which other muscles are involved?

Shoulders, Triceps.

How do you log your sets?

How do you track progressive overload?

Source: ExerciseDB catalogue and demonstration. Related movements are options to compare, not equivalent loads or a prescribed progression.

Alternatives to explore

STARK is a strength training tracker for iPhone and Apple Watch. Log sets, repetitions and weights, then follow your progress. Core features are free. Explore STARK’s features