WTF- Bench is going down , everything else is going up.

[Test boy]

I am trying to figure why my bench went down recently while most other lifts continue to increase. Especially since I work on the bench the hardest...next to squats. I only bench 2/week so it shouldn't be overtraining.

 

[The mann]

what are you doing differently?......were you always benching twice?

 

[Abbaddon]

I dont think overtraining is your problem I think maybe you need to shock your muscles. For instance I dont even flat bench I think it is more of an ego thing. For about two months I never touched a bar just used dumbells for both incline and decline presses. I hit a little platue so I switched back to the bar and still only do incline and decline presses. Now if your training for a powerlifting comp you need to practice your flat bench but if your just going for building muscle I suggest you stay away from the flat bench and change your routine up often

 

[Test boy]

I lift so hard that my whole body shakes on the bench...that should shock the muscles I would think. Maybe it is overtraining. Think I will do fewer sets and see what happens.-

 

[Abbaddon]

ok one more time but this time try to pay attention. Your muscles could need a change in workout meaning a change in exercises, reps, sets etc. Not that you dont push hard that was never said. Shocking the muscles by throwing something new at it is what I meant. You may want to check your nutrition also to make sure your getting enough protein, but I really dont think that is it since your other lifts are going up.

Just gotta love people that ask for advice, then shoot down whatever advice they get. lol

 

[needsize]

You could try training it only once a week, the extra rest might be what it needs

 

[gymtime]

TB - has your bench been going down over several weeks, or did it just go down once?

 

[Test boy]

It went down once...I'm not used to that. Especially when other things are going up. Doesn't make sense.

 

[gymtime]

Nah, don't sweat that. You just had an off day. It'll be back to normal soon, likely on your next chest day.

 

[Test boy]

Thanks!!!...now I hurt a back muscle or something doing 240 on the seated row. Lifting heavy sure does increase injuries.