Bench press failure - why?

[VRider]

Years ago I used to bench regularly as part of my routine. My stength gains came rapidly and my chest grew quicker than any other bodypart. I was on a business trip once and made the mistake of using the machine bench at the hotel. The machine forced me to use an odd form when lifting. I didn't feel a pinch or anything, but my right shoulder was oddly sore for the next few days. Since then, whenever I bench any significant weight, my right arm/shoulder will suddenly "fade" half-way into a set. it's like someone just turned-off the switch to that muscle group. I've learned to work around it using dumbbells on an incline/decline (I have the same problem on a dumbbell flat bench).

Any thoughts on what is causing this and what I can do about it? Thanks!

 

[Jowers]

I would go see the doctor

 

[Screwball]

Impingement...

You might have damaged your rotator. Now, there is an impingement in the joint. Once you push the shoulder too far it will "shut down" in order to protect the joint. I recommend that you slowly work your way back up over a period of time (say 6 months to a year). Be sure to stretch and thoroughly warm the joint up before training. I would be careful with incline and over-the-head movements. If you continue to stress the joint it will never respond and strengthen. Don't do exercises that cause any discomfort. If your patient and train smart you can rehabilitate the joint. I went through this process a few years back and mine NEVER gives me problems any more. Good luck!

- Screwball