band and chains for a raw bencher

[norseman]

Tell me if I'm wrong.
I bench raw. It's just my choice and I dont care that other people wear bench shirts. It's up to the person.
No the question is: Would using bands and chains in training help a raw bencher like myself? I dont think they would unless I had trouble with lockout. It seems to me that training with bands and chains are for powerlifters that use a bench shirt. What do you guys think?

 

[powerlifterjay]

Well if you compete raw, i am sure you train all sapects of your bench. Meaning you must dedicate alot of time building the muscles to through the weight off your chest. I bench raw every monday night, and do boards every thurs. No i dont compete raw but i can bench 500 for 4 to 5 reps raw in my training. And i use bands just about every thursday. I have no chains but on the floor press i would definitly saythey would help a raw bencher.

 

[Screwball]

Bands & Chains...

I'll be the first to tell you but you are wrong. Bands and chains work the strength curve throughout the entire eccentric and concentric portions of a lift (of course, dependant on set-up). They work the eccentric portion of a lift to a greater degree and they teach a lifter how to lift explosively and with speed. In addition, bands & chains really work the stabilizer muscles. In order for a lifter to maximize training; bands & chains must be used. With all of this being said, it is important to note that bands & chains must be used intelligently. If used excessively or too often they can certainly lead to overtraining. If and when you give them a try, I'm sure you will experience the same benefits they provide whether a raw lifter or a lifter that uses gear.

- Screwball

 

[brianmincher]

I also compete in a shirt. I use chains every speed workout, and I use bands some of the time in speed work, and some of the time in max effort work.

My raw bench has gone up since I started using the bands and chains. I think that they would help you whether you wear a shirt or not, because for me, they help me to increase my bar speed. I have to think speed is at least as important when going raw than it is when wearing a shirt. My raw bench is not very good in comparison to my shirt bench, but both have gone up since I started using chains and bands. Hope this helps,

B

 

[Screwball]

Shoot...

Damn it! Jay beat me to it and Brian almost did too. I think we're all in agreement that chains & bands will aid any lifter in attaining their strength and size goals.

- Screwball

 

[powerlifterjay]

Oh well had to edit my post. But they will help you no matter how you train or with what frequency. But liek they said there HARD on your body. I know i thought i was superman using them every week but lately i noticed i have been skipping on bands more often. So be carefull or you WILL overtrain.