A Biomechanical Analysis of the Sticking Region in the Bench Press (Elite Powerlifters)
Elliott BC, Wilson GJ, Kerr GK
Evidence is still limited and needs further study
Summary
A classic study analyzing 10 elite powerlifters at approximately 80% 1RM, a maximal lift, and a failed lift using 3D cinematography and surface EMG. The 'sticking region' — a sharp deceleration mid-lift — could not be simply explained by an increased moment arm or reduced muscle activity at that point. The shoulder joint moment arm decreased consistently throughout the ascent, while the elbow joint moment arm reached its minimum near the sticking region before increasing again.
Source (read the original)
View sourceKey findings
- 1
10 elite powerlifters were analyzed at ~80% 1RM, a maximal lift, and a failed lift using 3D cinematography and EMG
- 2
The sticking region could not be explained simply by an increased moment arm or reduced muscle activity
- 3
The shoulder joint moment arm decreased consistently throughout the lift
- 4
The elbow joint moment arm reached a minimum near the sticking region before increasing again
Related research
Related exercises
Last checked: