If you're looking for a straightforward way to build strength across your entire pressing range, the three-grip bench press is a go-to tool. It's an easy method to expose weak points, overload different parts of the lift, and build stability through varied hand positions.
What is the Three-Grip Bench Press?
As the name suggests, the three-grip bench press involves cycling through three distinct grip widths within a single training session. A common example is 9 total sets of 3 reps, broken up evenly across three grips.
Here’s how it works:
Narrow Grip (Close to the Smooth):
Start with your hands just inside the knurling, right up against the smooth part of the bar. Perform 3 sets of 3 reps here. This grip emphasizes triceps and increases the range of motion, making it a great way to build pressing power out of the bottom.Medium Grip (Slightly Wider):
For your next 3 sets of 3, widen your grip. This is often your competition grip or just a comfortable middle ground. It offers a balance between triceps and chest activation.Wide Grip (Pinky on the Ring):
Finish the last 3 sets with your pinkies on the powerlifting ring. This shortens the range of motion slightly and emphasizes the chest more. Stability becomes a bigger factor here too.
Optional: Four-Grip Bench Press
Sometimes we’ll run a four-grip version of this, using the same three grips above plus one additional wider grip—index finger on the ring. In that version, you’re typically performing 12 total sets (3 sets per grip).
How to Distribute Sets
Ideally, divide your total number of sets evenly among the prescribed grips. But if your program includes an odd number of sets (like 10 or 11), we recommend assigning the extra sets to your weakest grip. This helps bring up the limiting factor in your bench press more directly.
Why Use This Method?
The three-grip bench press is a great tool for:
Building general pressing strength across different ranges
Identifying grip-specific weaknesses
Improving triceps strength and shoulder stability
Providing variety in a bench-focused training block
Whether you’re a powerlifter looking to push through a plateau or just want to keep your bench training fresh, this method delivers.