Hi all,

I just wanted to get some opinions here as to what the difference is between doing the bench press using a barbbell versus using dumbbells. The workout that I am currently doing requires an increase in weights throughout the sets and dumbbells are much easier than changing the weights on the barbell.

Is there pros or cons to using one of these workouts over the other?



Sorry, I meant to title this "Barbell Press or Dumbbell Press"

both are very similar, work the same muscles, etc.

dumbbells are 'harder' because each arm must work independently, as well as all the stabilizing muscles.
dumbells also allow more range of motion, particularly in the shoulders and scapula.

you should really do some of each, say one workout a week with the barbell, the rest with dumbbells. also do both flat and inclined bench.

malkore, what about decline? I never really did them until I took a weight lifting class for my PE credit for school and the teacher suggested I do them too since she saw me do flat and incline, but never decline.

Variety is good.

Declines are ok, not one of my favorites. I don't like the blood rushing to my head when I try to bench haha. I think you are better off doing dips and pullovers personally. But, as stated above, variety is always good in the gym.