Definition of bench press

The term "bench press" initially referred to a machine used for testing the strength of steam engines in the late 19th century. The machine consisted of a large bench, or surface, with a barbell attached at each end, and was used to gauge the power and efficiency of engines during assembly and testing. However, the bench press as we know it today originated in the early 1900s as a novel variation of the traditional overhead barbell press. Athletes began performing the exercise with the barbell placed on a bench rather than held at arm's length above the head, which allowed them to lift heavier weights due to the reduced range of motion and the advantage of the load being brought towards the body. The bench press quickly gained popularity in weightlifting circles and was added to the Olympic weightlifting event program in 1922, initially as a static lift known as the "bench press squat clean". In 1972, it became a separate event known as the "bench press", with competitors lying flat on their backs on a bench and pushing the barbell upwards in a controlled motion. The bench press has since become a staple exercise in weightlifting and conditioning programs, thanks to its effectiveness in building upper body strength and muscle mass. It is commonly used in professional sports as a measure of an athlete's overall performance and is often included in fitness competitions and challenges.