Which is better, dumbbell or barbell bench press?

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Which is better, dumbbell or barbell bench press?

2025-01-02

Advantages and Disadvantages of Barbell Bench Press
‌Advantages‌:
Strong stability‌: The barbell bench press has high stability and is suitable for training with larger weights, which helps to improve overall strength and muscle strength. ‌
High safety‌: When the weight is at the limit, it is more convenient to use a barbell, which is suitable for beginners looking for rapid muscle growth. ‌
‌Low difficulty of movement‌: The difficulty of the barbell bench press is relatively low, which is ideal for trainers with a certain strength foundation. ‌

‌Disadvantages‌:
Poor flexibility‌: Due to the fixed horizontal bar of the barbell, the range of motion may be limited, which is unsuitable for training that requires a larger range of motion. ‌
‌Joint pressure‌: For people with poor shoulder joint flexibility, barbell bench press may cause joint discomfort.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Dumbbell Bench Press
‌Advantages‌:
High flexibility‌: The dumbbell bench press has a larger range of motion and can activate muscles more comprehensively, which is particularly suitable for training that requires a larger range of motion.
‌Good balance‌: The dumbbell bench press can be performed with one hand, which helps to improve left and right muscle strength imbalance or posture problems. ‌
Shoulder-friendly‌: The Dumbbell bench press is more friendly to shoulders and suitable for trainers who need to protect their shoulders. ‌

‌Disadvantages‌:
Weight limit‌: The weight selection of dumbbells is relatively limited, and novices may find it difficult to control. ‌
Low safety: Without the help of a partner, a dumbbell bench press is less safe, especially when hitting heavy weights.

Selection suggestions ‌Beginners‌: It is recommended to start with a dumbbell bench press because the movement is more flexible and the weight is easier to control. ‌
‌Trainers with a certain foundation‌: You can choose a barbell bench press to increase the load and promote muscle growth and development. ‌Trainers pursuing comprehensive development‌: You can flexibly choose according to your training goals, combining the advantages of barbell and dumbbell bench press to achieve more comprehensive muscle activation and strength improvement.