Breaking Through Bench Press Plateaus

IronBearRU · Post by **IronBearRU** » Wed Jan 28, 2026 2:30 am

I have been stuck at 225 for months. Any advice on breaking through?

GarageLifter303 · Post by **GarageLifter303** » Wed Jan 28, 2026 3:10 am

Micro-loading. Get some 1.25lb plates.

CanuckLifter · Post by **CanuckLifter** » Wed Jan 28, 2026 3:55 am

Pause bench. It builds incredible power off the chest.

IronBearRU · Post by **IronBearRU** » Wed Jan 28, 2026 4:35 am

How long should the pause be?

GarageLifter303 · Post by **GarageLifter303** » Wed Jan 28, 2026 5:20 am

A solid 2-second count. Don't let the tension go.

CanuckLifter · Post by **CanuckLifter** » Wed Jan 28, 2026 6:00 am

Also, work on your triceps. Close grip bench is king.

IronBearRU · Post by **IronBearRU** » Wed Jan 28, 2026 6:45 am

My triceps are definitely a weak point.

GarageLifter303 · Post by **GarageLifter303** » Wed Jan 28, 2026 7:25 am

Weighted dips too. They transfer well to the bench.

CanuckLifter · Post by **CanuckLifter** » Wed Jan 28, 2026 8:10 am

Make sure your form is tight. Squeeze the lats.

IronBearRU · Post by **IronBearRU** » Wed Jan 28, 2026 8:40 am

I will focus on the setup more.