He is a bench specialist powerlifter. his main objective for bench is to be able to execute the lift to IPF competition standards with the most weight possible. Using his mobility to his advantage, he is able to reduce the range of motion needed to perform the lift. I would think a near 3x BW bench press could only be done using the strictest form possible.
Thanks for the info on that one. It is definitely impressive regardless. Would you say that the form demonstrated is IPF standard? I only ask because someone else on this thread, actually it may have been you, posted a video of the bench press with what looked like much more range of motion, a narrower grip, etc. Looked more ‘proper’ if that means anything!
The only reason I ask is because when I’m training and trying to do the best lift possible, I avoid any kind of reduction in range of motion (eg bar going from almost locked elbows, to almost touching the chest, back to almost locked elbows, for a fairly slow 2 seconds down, one second up rhythm. What I see in the 73kg BW pressing 200kg+ is very short range of motion, fast reps like pumps, very wide grip. I also notice the amount of arch in the back and power driving up through the legs... doesn’t seem so much of a chest exercise with the legs involved to that extent. Are there folks who keep it super strict, only using the chest and arm muscles and not pressing through the legs? Is that even a thing or just outdated technique? It just makes it hard to really know how you’re doing compared to others if the technique varies so much.
I’m a novice so really appreciate he info. Is there a ‘school’ of lifting that I should be looking at for comparisons that do things in the way I describe, or is it just what suits the individual? I realise comparing with others is kind of pointless, should just focus on myself, but sometimes it’s nice to have a little external inspiration.
I’ve seen something about ‘raw’ lifting, is that just lifting without any aids like wraps and lifting vests, etc?
I guess I’m just trying to say it seems impossible to compare someone pressing way less but without using legs much, slower reps, no help racking/unracking, no aids etc, to someone like the video I was talking about?
I really appreciate the info!