It’s not how much you do, but how you do it. Controlled “pin-touch” reps on the bench press are far better than uncontrolled “bounce-off-your-chest” reps. As far as load, anything above your body weight for reps is good. Unless you’re a powerlifter, it’s not the absolute amount that counts, but rather the relative amount compared…
Believe it or not, many lifters get injured just getting in and out of position before an exercise begins or right after it’s done! The lying dumbbell press is a classic example. It can be a real challenge, especially when using heavy weights. Unless you have two strong, experienced spotters handing you the dumbbells at…
As I discussed in my Warm-Up to Strength Training DVD, incorporating plyometrics before weight training can significantly enhance performance—if done correctly. Many top strength coaches swear by this method, and the science backs it up. A study published in the International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance found that performing explosive-force movements immediately before a…
The reverse bench press is not mentioned often and I must admit, I don’t prescribe it too frequently either, but it can be a great triceps exercise. The big knock against it: comfort! It’s not a “wrist-friendly” movement, especially under a heavy load. But there’s a way to transform this into a winner, it’s called…