I want to try to get a read on if I’m benching less on barbell bench because of confidence issues so I did a heavy set of DB bench to get an idea of my strength.
I haven’t done DB bench more than a few times in the past year, but I just did a fairly smooth set of 100s x 8. What does this say about what I “should” be able to bench with a barbell? I’m suspicious that I’m benching less than I could on barbell because of technique issues so I’m hoping to use this as a barometer
20% more with a barbell, compared to the combined weight of 2 dumbbells
As the dumbbells get heavier they also get larger. It is possible that you are not getting as deep with dumbbells as you would get when using the barbell.
For me 90s for 10-12 is 225 on the flat bench for the same reps. 120s will be closer to 275 on the bench.
You never mentioned what your BB bench is. Are you using a spotter? Sometimes having a lift off and somebody watching you helps when it gets heavier.
this is a valid concern but I reckon I’m fine, I hold the dumbells off-center so that they tilt down on the outsides, it lets me get deeper as the part of the weight that would collide with my chest angles up.
It sounds like I’m weaker on db than bb though because I last maxed at 325x1 before my cut. I’ve been struggling more than I would like to crank out sets of 5 anything above 275 these last couple months though so I want to try to fix it.
My failed reps all feel the same; it feels like the bar sways a little bit south when I come off my chest and it sort of cycles back down. Guess this all just points to me needing to get stronger. More sleep, more creatine, more water; easy prescription to follow.
You guys notice any big differences in recovery from sleeping at a consistent time? I run a small business so I’ll often work varied hours that can go very late. Is forcing my hours into a consistent cycle likely to pay dividends?
I notice it more and more with every year that passes.
The only way to know how much you will bench with a barbell is to do it and then find out. 100x8 on a DB press means you are a strong dude already. Whether or not it is worth your while to figure out how strong you are on the barbell bench press is up to you and your lifting priorities.
How does your bench press strength tie in with your goals in your efforts in the weight room?
Thats actually plenty strong to stimulate and continue to gain, albeit at a relatively normal rate.
Like, unless you start using specialized or powerlifting techniques, your bench press is fine.