Thumbless Grip

[Mar]

Hi Cathe - Hope you are well. A quick question. What is the purpose of doing the thumbless grip on a chest press with the barbell? Does it make the exercise harder or does it hit the muscles in a different way?

Thanks and take care. Mar


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[BakerGirl]

I was wondering the same thing.

Kathy

 

[mommacody]

i may be wrong, but i was thinking that this grip sort of "forces" you to hold the bar in a way that distributes the weight correctly to do the exercise effectively.

jenn

 

[kathryn]

It reduces involvement of the forearms.

 

[Mar]

Thank you Kathryn!

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[Cathe Friedrich]

Hi Mar! How are you

Using a thumbless grip puts your hand in a more neutral and comfortable position to keep your wrist aligned properly plus allow for better tricep recruitement as a result. This applies most specifically to exercises such as lying extentions and close grip bench press. However, on a regular bench press, if your weight is heavier, it may feel more natural or secure for you to keep your thumb around the bar. Safety always comes first, so always use a grip that feels most secure per exercise.

Take Care!