Pin Presses

Form sequence

1. 01 · purpose

   Pin presses remove the eccentric phase of the bench press, developing starting strength. They also allow you to train a desired range of motion.

2. 02 · setup

   The bench should be set up in a power rack. Set the pins to the desired point in your range of motion, whether it just be lockout or an inch off of your chest. The bar should be moved to the pins and prepared for lifting.

3. 03 · body position · Key step

   Begin by lying on the bench, with the bar directly above the contact point during your regular bench. Tuck your feet underneath you and arch your back. Using the bar to help support your weight, lift your shoulder off the bench and retract them, squeezing the shoulder blades together. Use your feet to drive your traps into the bench. Maintain this tight body position throughout the movement.

4. 04 · grip

   You can take a standard bench grip, or shoulder width to focus on the triceps. The bar, wrist, and elbow should stay in line at all times. Focus on squeezing the bar and trying to pull it apart.

5. 05 · press

   Drive the bar up with as much force as possible. The elbows should be tucked in until lockout.

6. 06 · return

   Return the bar to the pins, pausing before beginning the next repetition.