Do you need a spotter to bench press?

Question

Do you need a spotter to do a free bench press or the machine one?

Also would it be safe to do it alone without a spotter?

Thank you

Answer 1

It is kind of like riding off road on a motorcycle without a helmet. You can get away with it for a little while but eventually you will want to push yourself. If you mess up it is nice to have that safety factor there. Using a machine shouldn't require a spotter because you are not in any danger.



Besides the safety factor a good spotter can also motivate, and provide help in the last few reps (that you couldn't have completed otherwise). The spotter does not have to be your regular workout buddy. If you are at a gym, don't feel bad about asking for help from a stranger. I often spot strangers while they push the weight up and down. Rarely am I needed for anything more than their audience.



Safety should supercede stupidity. If you have access to a squatting cage some are equipped with horizontal safety bars. Placing your bench inside of the cage you might be able to position the safety bars low enough to prevent the barbell from pinning you down if you need help. This method usually prevents you from managing a full range of motion though.



Do what you need to do to stay safe.

Answer 2

Yea, you'll need a spotter for the bench. No matter what weight you're doing you need a spotter. Even if you're just lifting the 45lb bar. If you max out or get too tired or just try to do a speed rep, your arms will get tired and even you may not be able to pull off that 45lb weight. Plus, a spotter can help keep your bar straight and edge you to push harder when it really counts.



No one wants to choke themselves out with weights



the machine ones you really don't need a spotter at all because all the weights are tucked away into the machine. Unless you need someone to watch you to make sure you're not putting your hands around the weights =P



Good Luck!

Answer 3

If you can have a spotter then it is always best to have one.

Never lift without a spotter if you are lifting heavy weight that you may struggle to lift

It can be safe to do without a spotter if you are lifting light weight that you can easily lift.

Answer 4

Ask yourself if you want a spotter or a broken neck and windpipe ( on a free bench ) , which is not outside the realm of possibility.

Answer 5

YESSS DEFINETLY!! without a spotter on an originall bench press is extremely dangerous... there hav been people that hav dropped the bar on their neck and died... no joke dont even think im lieing

Answer 6

Well when you bench press make sure someone is at home, especially when you start to bench 90% of your max. Its just a precaution and they don't have to be in the room, just a ear shot away from you. Parents or Siblings are ideal.

Answer 7

You can w/o a spotter. just know your limit

Answer 8

its safer to be with a spotter

Answer 9

ask the governator

Answer 10

just dont do ur max if u are alone