How much can you guys squat?

Charlts

Had you done much dead lifting before that?

sheriffwoody

i just cannot increase my bench no matter what i do
i REALLY want to rep at 100kg fairly comfortably, but it just isn't happening. i am still repping at 80-85kg. any tips?

Charlts

Eat more, is your technique good - strong arch, feet planted, good leg drive, strong grip on the bar pulling it apart, elbows in, wrists over elbows? Training wise get your triceps stronger - weighted dips, extensions etc.

Without knowing what your training is like it's difficult to offer anything, just have a google of some power lifting routines and stick to something for a few months to make it work for you. If you've got a strong spotter try negatives, other than that incorporate compound movements to your training sessions to get stronger overall and your bench will increase anyway.

What's your current 1rm?

silent ninja

I like pushing the bar in like I'm bending it , rather than pulling. I'm up to 87.5kg for 3x3 so I'm pretty confident I'd get a good single at 100kg.

sheriffwoody

my 1 rep max is only about 90kg.

Charlts

Build it up in little steps then buddy, firstly you've got to get used to doing 100kg for singles, then keep increasing your 1rm before you'll be repping 100. Eating more will help you lift more though.

silent ninja

Personally never seen the fuss of a 2 plate bench.  I've not especially been in a hurry to get there (in fact I stopped barbell benching for around 6 months at one point).  The bench press is the biggest ego lift in the gym.  You'll get there when you get there.  Push yourself equally as hard on the other parts of your body.

Anyway, I'm happy I can row what I bench press now.  Having a big back to match the chest is not only more aesthetic but healthy and functional too.

sheriffwoody

bent over row?

silent ninja

Bent over yeah.  It should be about the same as your bench

Charlts

Try pulling it, with practice you'll be able to get your lats, upper back and shoulders engaged which'll give a solid platform to press from, combined with the tension from your arch and leg drive 100 will fly up.

Agree on the ego thing, I don't get it as even though I'm rubbish at it I've more admiration for a big deadlift.