Influence of bench press exercise modality on the iso-inertial performance

Introduction. - This study used an iso-inertial dynamometer to investigate the influence of counter-movement and barbell throwing during bench press exercise. A critical analysis of these modalities during muscular evaluation was also performed. Methods. - The action of muscle stretch during the counter-movement induced an increase in average velocity and a shortening of the time to reach the peak power and peak velocity. The barbell throwing did not alter the initial part of the movement yet lengthened the propulsive phase and delayed the braking phase. Consequently, maximal power and maximal velocity performances were improved. However, the throwing of the barbell requires its catch when failing down, which could be potentially harmful. Conclusion. - The counter-movement and the throwing of the barbell significantly change the iso-inertial performances through a bench press exercise. The modalities of bench press assessment execution would have to be rigorously standardized. (c) 2006 Elsevier SAS. Tous droits reserves.