?Don?t Use That?: Fitness Influencer Slams Arnold Schwarzenegger?s Iconic Bench Press Technique

Weightlifting, particularly bench pressing, is a popular exercise that helps individuals develop upper body strength and muscle mass. However, it is essential to approach weightlifting with caution and prioritize safety to prevent potential injuries. One particular technique that has raised concerns among fitness professionals and experts in the “suicide grip.”

The suicide grip, also known as a thumbless grip, involves placing the thumb on the same side of the barbell as the rest of the fingers, rather than wrapping it around the bar. The technique was used vastly by bodybuilding legend Arnold Schwarzenegger during his prime years. However, the suicide grip poses significant risks that far outweigh any advantages. Fitness influencer Mike Munz who is an online coach, recently posted a video on his Instagram talking about the same.

Why did Munz don’t recommend the suicide grip?

Without the thumb to secure the grip, there is an inherent lack of control, making it more difficult to maintain a consistent bar path, resulting in potential muscle imbalances and decreased performance. Sharing an example of the same, Munz shared a video on his Instagram where a man dropped the barbell on his chest because of stability issues that might have happened because of the suicide grip.

Followed by the video, Munz stated,??Don?t use that grip, guys break world records without using that grip. There?s no real reason why anyone needs that grip.??He also mentioned in the caption,?“Stay Safe on Chest Day.”

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Even though Schwarzenegger has achieved great success in his career, his preferences and techniques may not always align with the safest practices recommended by fitness professionals. But if suicide grip is so dangerous,?why did Schwarzenegger prefer this??Let’s take a look.?

The reason behind Schwarzenegger’s obsession with suicide grip

While it is known by every lifter that the suicide grip, as the name suggests, is not a safe option, many still continue to use the grip. However, Arnold has previously stated the real reason behind him using the grip. Arnold mentioned in his daily newsletter Pump Club saying, ?I could give you a whole page of reasons why I did it, but this newsletter is all about being honest.?

Finally revealing the actual reason behind the grip, he said, “The reality is, there was no reason, and I mainly did it on the incline bench just because it felt good.??He admitted that it was just a personal preference and it has nothing to do with the gains that you are gonna make.

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Prioritizing safety is paramount when engaging in any form of weightlifting, including the bench press. While the suicide grip may offer perceived advantages, the risks associated with this technique significantly outweigh any potential benefits. This is exactly why coaches like Mike Munz have always been against the suicide grip. What are your views about the suicide grip? Let us know in the comments.