Barbell Reverse Band Bench Press
The bench press with bands hung from the top of a rack and looped on the bar: they take weight off at the chest and less at lockout.
How to do it
Setup
Bands hung from the top of the rack and looped on the sleeves, eyes under the bar, feet planted, blades pinched.
Steps
- Unrack and lower the bar to the lower chest as the bands stretch.
- Touch without bouncing, elbows about 45° from the body.
- Press to lockout, where the bands give the least help.
Common mistakes
Loading as if the bands lift everything: the top is the full weight; pick a load you can lock out. Bands hung unevenly: set them at the same height on both sides. Bouncing off the chest: pause a beat.
Breathing
Inhale on the way down, exhale through the press.
