Barbell vs. Dumbell Bench Press for Mass

[MarshallPenniford]

How so?

 

[CytoMel]

that's just retarded.

you are right, it makes no sense. I read some of hs posts and I dont understand him at all. Marshall, what do you mean about the smith machine? Do you use the smith machine or what?

 

[MarshallPenniford]

No, I use DB's. I'm not a fan of the BB's and I'm even less of a fan of pressing with the smith. But here's why I say this:

You can do the most weight with the smith, less with the BB, and even less with the DB's. The reason for this has to do with the stabilization involved with each movement.

If you are of the opinion that the BB is best for mass b/c you can do heavier weights with it, then it would follow that the smith would be even better, because you eliminate even more issues with the stabilizers and can push a heavier load.

I personally find the DB's to be a safer ROM and builds more overall stregnth, so I use them as much as possible.

Hope that made sense, let me know if not.

 

[rippedtrojan]

that's not true. the main reasons one would stay away from the smith machine are that they require no stabilization whatsoever. so the smith machine is exactly that, just a machine that most times bodybuilders and weight trainers stay away from. also, the smith machine can create some bad shear stresses on your knees.

 

[MarshallPenniford]

huh? what's not true? you didn't disagree with anything I said, in fact you used the same logic behind my original comment. Can you elaborate?

 

[GreenMountain]

Thanks for all the info and debate. I guess it comes down to using a variety of exercises with heavy loads and intensity. I guess my next question would be: Would you alternate db and bb bench presses from workout to workout, or would it be wiser to stick with one or the other until you switch workout programs?

 

[Haz]

I've always felt that dumbell presses worked the chest better. But for overall strength and mass, the barbell is probably the better choice. Personally I use both barbells and dumbells when working my chest. That way, I get the best of both worlds.

 

[Welsh power house]

Barbell by far!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[nevertoobig]

Barbell by far!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

no no no dumbell press puts more stress on the stabilizer muscles aswell as the chest.