Why should you not lockout on benchpress ?

[GymIntensity]

Just wondering if/what are the benefits of NOT locking out on benchpress? I lock out basically every single time.

 

[blut wump]

If you have really crap triceps you can avoid making them ache by skipping the top third of the movement.

I still remember the first time I saw someone hammering out a set of these two-thirds rep presses and wondering what the point was. Maybe it just allows guys to claim a higher number of reps on a set when their mates are around.

The only valid reason I can think of is the pursuit of continuous tension.

 

[Powerbuilder333]

Constant tension on the pecs I think is the reason.
I'm against it.

 

[Swole_2112]

I agree with blut and power, maximum time under tension is the goal. I don't agree with the idea of doing it all the time, though it has it's place. I've seen alot of guys, while warming up on the bench, knock out 2/3 reps. I should mention, I personally do full range of motion everytime. I think it result in more complete pectoral contraction.

 

[Knight9]

the lockout is mainly a triceps function.
and yes, the point of not locking out is to keep tension on the muscle. if you lock out...each rep you lock out on...you are slightly taking some tension off the pectorals.
this goes for other exercises too...such as the shoulder press.

 

[msam76]

If you lock your elbows you stand a chance of busting them under the weight. Not very good, I've seen it happen. Very sick and painful.

 

[samoth]

If you lock your elbows you stand a chance of busting them under the weight. Not very good, I've seen it happen. Very sick and painful.

Board presses are common in powerlifting. I've never heard of this happening before. (Not saying it hasnt', I've just never heard of it before.)

 

[string_bean00]

If you have really crap triceps you can avoid making them ache by skipping the top third of the movement.

I still remember the first time I saw someone hammering out a set of these two-thirds rep presses and wondering what the point was. Maybe it just allows guys to claim a higher number of reps on a set when their mates are around.

The only valid reason I can think of is the pursuit of continuous tension.

I actually hit far less weight/reps if I avoid lockout...the continuous tension kills me.


I usually lock out tho

 

[Pat_McCrotch]

what about using the smith machine over a regular bench? I do it cause I dont wanna bother people to spot me. is thier a big difference?

 

[factory46]

Smith machine makes my elbows hurt. Barbell makes my muscles big.

I just ask the people that I would return the favor for. And I only ask that they watch over me, not lift the weight for me. If I fail, then they can jump in. But I just save the train-to-failure for the dumbells cause I can drop them easily.