Tip: Improve Your Bench Press With This Spray

Sounds crazy, but many top strength athletes are starting to do it. Check this out.

Tags ,

Heavy Bench Pressing: All About the Back

There are two key components to safe and effective benching, especially when you get heavy:

  1. The ability to keep your scapulae retracted under you as you press.
  2. The ability to "wedge" yourself into a good arch using leg drive.

Problem is, many times it's difficult to get enough friction between your back and the bench to apply these two tactics. After a rep or two, you find your shoulder blades slipping into a more protracted position, or even worse, you find yourself slipping toward the uprights. That's a shitty way to celebrate International Bench Press Day.

An Easy Fix: Adhesive Spray

Head to your local sporting goods store and get yourself a can of adhesive spray, the kind athletic trainers use before they tape an ankle. (Mueller Magic Grip Spray is one brand to look for.)

Spray the upper portion of the bench where your shoulders will be before you lift. You'll be amazed at how well you can wedge yourself in before you unrack the bar. Minor shoulder issues often suddenly disappear, and new PR's often appear out of nowhere.

This spray won't damage the bench or discolor your clothing. In fact, you'll probably need to re-apply the spray every 3-4 sets. Give this simple trick a try and I'm betting you'll never bench without it again!

Charles Staley is an accomplished strength coach who specializes in helping older athletes reclaim their physicality and vitality. At age 56, Charles is leaner than ever, injury free, and in his lifetime best shape. His PRs include a 400-pound squat, 510-pound deadlift, and a 17 chin-up max. Follow Charles Staley on Facebook