I tend to favour a reverse-band setup when performing the California Press, which is a cross between a close-grip bench press and a lying triceps extension. The band reduces stress on the triceps tendon in the bottom position and promotes accommodating resistance (i.e., less weight at the bottom and more at the top). Give it…

Inserting strategic pauses when lifting weights is a great way to break the inertia and heighten muscular involvement. In particular, pausing in the bottom position helps to dissipate the plyometric or stretch-shortening effect. Think of it as less tendon and more muscle contribution. And if you rest the bar for a good two seconds on…