Do Strongman Bench Press?

The Intrigue of the Bench Press in Strongman Training

When diving into the world of strongman sports, there's always one question that lingers among enthusiasts and amateurs alike: Do strongmen really do bench press? It's a pertinent question and one that's worth exploring, especially given the unique dynamics of strongman events. Let's delve into this topic and unveil some enlightening information.

Bench pressing, for many gym-goers and fitness enthusiasts, is a staple. It's an exercise that many deem synonymous with strength. One cannot deny the bench press benefits, which range from building pectoral muscles, triceps, and anterior deltoids, to improving overall upper body strength. But in the world of strongman, the emphasis often leans towards functional strength - that is, strength that has a direct carry over to their specific events.

Why Bench Press is Rarely a Strongman Event

It might come as a surprise to some, but the bench press is rarely a strongman event. Strongman events usually prioritize tasks that test one's ability to lift, carry, or pull heavy weights over a certain distance or for a set amount of time. These tasks mimic real-life scenarios, like lifting stones, pulling trucks, or carrying yokes. Given this context, bench pressing doesn't seem to fit the bill.

However, this doesn't mean that the bench press is completely alien to strongman training. There's a distinct bench press carry over to strongman events that cannot be ignored.

Bench Press Benefits in Strongman Training

Here's a thought – just because it's not a designated event doesn't mean it's not beneficial. In fact, there's a substantial argument that the bench press can benefit pressing power in several strongman tasks.

• Pressing Power: Many strongman events, like the log lift or the axle press, require immense pressing power. While they aren't directly analogous to the bench press, the muscle groups activated during a bench press can be beneficial when training for these events.
• Stability: One of the overlooked bench press benefits is the stability it offers to the upper body. A stable upper body can provide an advantage in events that require carrying or holding weights for an extended period.
• Variety in Training: Introducing bench presses can provide a refreshing change to the typical strongman routine, preventing stagnation and overtraining of certain muscle groups.

However, while these benefits sound tempting, it's also crucial to consider the specificity of your training goals. If you're prepping for a particular event that doesn't require much pressing, it might be best to focus your energies elsewhere.

Should Strongman Do Bench Press?

So, the million-dollar question: should strongman do bench press? There's no one-size-fits-all answer. Some athletes swear by its inclusion in their training regimes, while others feel it's unnecessary given their specific goals. But if there's one thing that's certain, it's that the bench press is a versatile exercise. Whether you're looking to boost your pressing power, improve your upper body stability, or just add some variety to your training routine, the bench press can be a valuable tool in your arsenal. Just remember to ensure it aligns with your overall strongman training objectives.

On a final note, always remember to seek advice from seasoned trainers or professionals in the field, as they can provide insights tailored to your specific needs and aspirations in the strongman world. And if you ever find yourself pondering over incorporating a new exercise, be it the bench press or otherwise, remember to prioritize safety, technique, and the relevance of the exercise to your goals.