Counting the Bar Weight- The Debate on How to Measure Your Bench Press Performance
When you bench press, do you count the bar weight? This is a question that often arises among weightlifters and fitness enthusiasts. The answer to this question can greatly impact your training program and overall strength gains. In this article, we will explore the importance of including the bar weight in your bench press calculations and the potential benefits it can bring to your workout routine.
Counting the bar weight when you bench press is essential because it provides a more accurate representation of your total workload. Many individuals make the mistake of focusing solely on the weight of the plates they add to the bar, but the bar itself has a significant weight that should not be overlooked. By including the bar weight, you are accounting for the full weight you are lifting, which is crucial for tracking your progress and ensuring you are challenging yourself appropriately.
One of the main advantages of counting the bar weight is that it allows for a more consistent and fair comparison between workouts. For example, if you bench press 200 pounds one week and then increase your weight to 205 pounds the next week, but forget to include the bar weight, you may think you have made a significant improvement. However, if the bar weight was 25 pounds, your actual increase was only 15 pounds. This can lead to false perceptions of progress and hinder your ability to accurately assess your improvements.
Another benefit of counting the bar weight is that it can help you identify plateaus and adjust your training accordingly. If you find that you are consistently unable to lift a certain weight, it may be due to the combined weight of the plates and the bar. By knowing the exact weight of the bar, you can make adjustments to the plates to ensure you are challenging yourself effectively. This can prevent plateaus and help you continue to make progress in your bench press performance.
Moreover, including the bar weight in your calculations can help you set realistic goals and track your progress over time. By knowing the exact weight you are lifting, you can set specific goals for your bench press and monitor your progress towards achieving them. This can provide a sense of accomplishment and motivation as you work towards breaking personal records and improving your strength.
In conclusion, when you bench press, it is crucial to count the bar weight in your calculations. This practice ensures accuracy, allows for fair comparisons, helps identify plateaus, and enables you to set and track realistic goals. By including the bar weight, you can optimize your training program and make the most of your bench press workouts. So, the next time you step up to the bench, remember to count the bar weight and take your strength to new heights.
