Two questions about benching...

I just got two small questions... what exactly is the purpose of benching on an incline vs just a flat bench... and... what is the typical/average weight of a benching pole by itself?

thnx MBW
 
Flat bench vs incline bench?

Muscle fibres in muscles are recruited depending on load and fatigue, not angle. However, the difference in alternate angles that use the same main agonist (in this case the pectoralis) is the synergists (the muscles that assist the agonist in the lift), dynamic stabilizers (counters the rotator force of an agonist) and stabilizers (muscles that simply flex to maintain posture or fixate a joint) that come into play. The flat bench uses the anterior deltoid as a synergist. As you increase the incline, the lateral deltoid starts to come into play more, taking up relatively more of the load. The trapezius will come into play more as a dynamic stabilizer as well.

So what I'm saying is your main muscle is still activated, but depending on the angle, other musculature will come into play.

Hope that makes sense.

The typical benching bar weighs 45 pounds.
 
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I've heard that the "upper pecs" (clavicular head) would be better hit in incline since you're pushing more towards the vertical than you are with a flat bench. The fibers would be more "in line" with the movement.. is there anything to this?
 
Well, to put it in a word, yes, but only if you use a narrower grip.

My rule of thumb is the higher the incline, the narrower the grip should be because the anterior deltoids slam into the acromion process and ultimately wreck your shoulders.
 
ILM you're a very well spoken lady. There's a few people on the forum who's advice I always read because it's always on the ball and you're one of them. Although I haven't spoken to you, you're info has helped me greatly. Thank you.:beerchug:
 
ILM you're a very well spoken lady. There's a few people on the forum who's advice I always read because it's always on the ball and you're one of them. Although I haven't spoken to you, you're info has helped me greatly. Thank you.:beerchug:

Aw, thanks, NickyK. That means the world to me to know that I've helped you :hug2:
 
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