Barbell Bench Press with 3 board

Master the Barbell Bench Press with 3 boards to strengthen your lockout and overload the top portion of your chest press.

Intermediate
Compound
Push
1 min per set2 min rest

Description

A bench press variation where a lifter lowers the barbell to a set of three boards on their chest before pressing it back up. This shortens the range of motion and allows the lifter to use more weight or perform more reps.

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How to Do Barbell Bench Press with 3 board

  1. 1
    Setup

    Lie supine on a flat bench with your eyes directly under the racked barbell, ensuring the three-board stack is securely placed on your chest.

  2. 2
    Setup

    Grip the barbell slightly wider than shoulder-width with an overhand grip, unrack the weight, and position it directly over your chest with elbows extended.

  3. 3

    Inhale and slowly lower the barbell in a controlled motion towards the three boards stacked on your chest, tucking your elbows slightly towards your torso.

  4. 4

    Once the barbell gently touches the boards, exhale and powerfully press the barbell straight back up to the starting position, extending your elbows fully.

  5. 5

    Control the eccentric (lowering) phase for the next repetition or carefully re-rack the barbell once your set is complete.

Tips

  • Maintain tension: Keep your lats engaged throughout the entire movement to stabilize your shoulders and generate more power during the press.
  • Controlled touch: Aim for a soft, controlled touch on the boards, avoiding bouncing the weight, which can negate the benefits of the reduced range of motion.
  • Explosive press: Focus on pressing the weight off the boards as explosively as possible to develop strength in the top portion of the lift and improve lockout power.
  • Elbow position: Ensure your elbows are tucked slightly (around 45 degrees relative to your torso) to protect your shoulders and maximize chest engagement.

Common Mistakes

  • ×Bouncing off the boards: Avoid bouncing the barbell off the boards; instead, lower with control to achieve a deliberate, momentary pause before pressing up.
  • ×Flaring elbows too wide: Don't let your elbows flare out excessively, which can strain the shoulders; keep them tucked slightly towards your body to maintain shoulder health and improve pressing mechanics.
  • ×Losing core tension: Prevent your hips from lifting off the bench during the press by bracing your core tightly and maintaining five points of contact (head, upper back, glutes, feet).

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Barbell Bench Press with 3 board good for beginners?
Barbell Bench Press with 3 board is rated intermediate. Beginners can still attempt it with lighter weight and careful form, but it's best to master easier variations first.
What equipment do I need for Barbell Bench Press with 3 board?
You need Barbell to perform Barbell Bench Press with 3 board. If you don't have this equipment, look for variations that target the same muscles with what you have available.
What are the best tips for Barbell Bench Press with 3 board?
Maintain tension: Keep your lats engaged throughout the entire movement to stabilize your shoulders and generate more power during the press. Controlled touch: Aim for a soft, controlled touch on the boards, avoiding bouncing the weight, which can negate the benefits of the reduced range of motion. Explosive press: Focus on pressing the weight off the boards as explosively as possible to develop strength in the top portion of the lift and improve lockout power. Elbow position: Ensure your elbows are tucked slightly (around 45 degrees relative to your torso) to protect your shoulders and maximize chest engagement.
What are common mistakes when doing Barbell Bench Press with 3 board?
Bouncing off the boards: Avoid bouncing the barbell off the boards; instead, lower with control to achieve a deliberate, momentary pause before pressing up. Flaring elbows too wide: Don't let your elbows flare out excessively, which can strain the shoulders; keep them tucked slightly towards your body to maintain shoulder health and improve pressing mechanics. Losing core tension: Prevent your hips from lifting off the bench during the press by bracing your core tightly and maintaining five points of contact (head, upper back, glutes, feet).

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Barbell Bench Press with 3 board

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