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Does height affect bench abilty?
- Thread starter 69Muscle
- Start date
Thaibox
New member
I'm 6'2" and bench has always been my weak lift. Its only logical that arm length is a liability. Tall dudes have to move the weight farther. I'm going to try for a new max of 405 this weekend, but thats after almost ten years of training. I know short dudes that toss that weight around with less time and dedication than me. But, when I'm in the ring I have the reach advantage which is well worth it
Just make sure you don't use it as an excuse. Use it as a challenge.
Just make sure you don't use it as an excuse. Use it as a challenge.
powerlifterjay
New member
As much as i would like to say height doesnt matter in a way it does. But not as much as having good genetic leverages. I have a training partner who is 5'6 he benches 500. I am 5'10 and bench over 600. I have to travel farther but it doesnt help him at all. I think the best thing you can do is widen your grip, and thicken your torso. I know at least 10 to 15 guys i compete with that are over 6'3 afew over 6'5 that bench well over 600 and i can name some that are over 6'0 and can get 700. Strengthen your tris and widen your grip , tuck your elbows and stay tight!
The reason most people believe height has a lot to do with strength is correct only to a point. The main concept that you should think about is the system of levers. Usually, people who are taller have longer arms. Since the shorter person usually has shorter arms, he or she has a greater mechanical advantage to lift the desired weight. A better comparison is to judge by relative cross sectional muscle area (muscle mass). Regardless of height, people that have a cross sectional area of muscle relative in size to each other usually posses the same ability to lift a similar amount of weight. Alot also has to do with genetics and muscle fiber types. I wouldnt worry too much about this whole ordeal of height and strength. Its good to understand the physiological concepts but your time is better spent focusing on making the best of your training, nutrition and rest.
Rebelrocker
New member
It makes no difference if your'e taller or shorter!! the muscles are longer on a taller man,the shorter man as shorter muscles so it doesnt make a difference.If it would make a difference then the tall man would have as short muscles as the dwarf!! get it?
I have seen a study that said people with long forearms have trouble benching weather their short or tall. Also I don't think height is really to blame because if one lifter was 5'6'' and the other guy is 6''4 the guy that is 6'4'' if proportioned should have alot wider shoulders, bigger frame, and the ability to carry alot more muscle mass which should equal more strength.
If you're going to make a comparison they have to be the same weight. Otherwise you're comparing apples and oranges. Mechanically speaking the shorter guy most likely will have shorter limbs the result of this will be a shorter distance for the bar to travel. This is an advantage. Same goes for the squat. It will be a disadvantage when he gets called to deadlift. But the advantage in the two lifts will make up for the deadlift. If you go to enough powerlifting meets and get to know people in the sport you will notice the better lifters tend to be short and stocky. There are always exceptions to this tho.
TheCorruptor
New member
i know what you are all talking about, i'm 6'8" and have major sticking points on bench and squats.
