Barbell California Press
The close-grip press lowered to the top of the chest with the elbows drifting forward instead of tucking to the ribs; a triceps lift between a press and an extension.
How to do it
Setup
Lying on a flat bench, a close overhand grip about shoulder-width, the bar over the upper chest on straight arms.
Steps
- Lower the bar toward the top of the chest, letting the elbows travel forward.
- Touch lightly just below the collarbones.
- Press back up by straightening the elbows.
Common mistakes
Elbows flaring out to the sides: they point forward toward the feet. Bar drifting to the lower chest: that is the close-grip bench press; bring it high. Bouncing off the chest: touch and press.
Breathing
Inhale lowering, exhale pressing.
