Uploaded April 2025 | Updated September 2026, 1 week ago
While I love the bench press for its ability to grow not only a bigger but a stronger chest as well, I don’t love the wide grip position. As you can see in the video, his hands are nearly at the end of the barbell. This is a tough position for anyone with shoulder issues and I while I would say the bench press is a staple exercise here, you would likely be better off doing it with a narrower grip than Arnold.
If you have shoulder issues that prevent you from performing the barbell bench press comfortably or safely, then I would recommend that you opt to use dumbbells instead. The freedom of motion will allow you to press comfortably and safely while still delivering the chest gains you are looking for.
For more tips on building muscle, be sure to stay tuned to this channel and remember to subscribe so you never miss another video from a physical therapist with a pro sports background as a PT and strength coach.
You can subscribe to this channel here - bit.ly/2b0coMW
Get Your Workout & Meal Plan:
📝 athleanx.com
Connect With Me:
👉 instagram.com/athleanx
For complete step-by-step workout programs, head on over to athleanx.com and make sure to use the program selector to find the training plan that is best suited to your personal goals.
Jeff Cavaliere MSPT, CSCS served as both the head physical therapist and assistant strength coach for the New York Mets. Jeff earned his Masters of Physical Therapy and Bachelor’s of Physioneurobiology from the College of Health Sciences University of Connecticut Storrs. He is a certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA).
While I love the bench press for its ability to grow not only a bigger but a stronger chest as well, I don’t love the wide grip position. As you can see in the video, his hands are nearly at the end of the barbell. This is a tough position for anyone with shoulder issues and I while I would say the bench press is a staple exercise here, you would likely be better off doing it with a narrower grip than Arnold.
If you have shoulder issues that prevent you from performing the barbell bench press comfortably or safely, then I would recommend that you opt to use dumbbells instead. The freedom of motion will allow you to press comfortably and safely while still delivering the chest gains you are looking for.
For more tips on building muscle, be sure to stay tuned to this channel and remember to subscribe so you never miss another video from a physical therapist with a pro sports background as a PT and strength coach.
You can subscribe to this channel here - bit.ly/2b0coMW
Get Your Workout & Meal Plan:
📝 athleanx.com
Connect With Me:
👉 instagram.com/athleanx
For complete step-by-step workout programs, head on over to athleanx.com and make sure to use the program selector to find the training plan that is best suited to your personal goals.
Jeff Cavaliere MSPT, CSCS served as both the head physical therapist and assistant strength coach for the New York Mets. Jeff earned his Masters of Physical Therapy and Bachelor’s of Physioneurobiology from the College of Health Sciences University of Connecticut Storrs. He is a certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA).
