Board and Pin Presses

[maverick]

As far as bench press goes, whats the difference between a board press or a pin press? I know what they are, but I mean how are they different functionally? They seem like the same thing, just a method to shorten ROM.

[Firehawk]

They're pretty close to the same.

There are differences though in the way you can train with board presses that you can't do off pins. With boards you can let the weight slam into the board and get a rebound effect (not quite like pins would give). That could help simulate using rebound of a bench shirt in a competition (technique).

ALso with board presses, some people touch the board, some people let weight sit on the board, some people let weight sit on the board while it rocks and then throw it back (pitch and catch type).

The point is the same really though, to work on weakpoints.

[F_Mac]

Firehawk basically nailed it there.

I will share my own personal experiences with both. Pin presses absolutely anniliate my shoulders, and not in a good way. Feels like someone is sticking daggers into them.

Board presses are much easier on my shoulders. In fact, I used to have shoulder pain when benching and after doing board work for a few months the pain disappeared and I can now bench full range with zero pain. They are also good to get you used to handling heavy weights.

FYI, I always stop and rest the bar for a 1 count when doing them, but you don't have to.

[Bearbait]

I totally agree with Mac on Pin presses being hard on the shoulders, I can't do them. Last week I made up some towel boards and yes I'm crazy. I folded three towels together to get the height of a three board and used them. It actually worked good and was very comfortable. I let the bar sink into the towels abit then I push up. I got some really weird looks bringing my towels into the gym, I wonder why but I think they are getting used to me.