Spotter Bench Press Etiquette

[Steve McDonald]

Originally Posted by iknowftbll

I never turn down a spot when someone offers. I've also never turned down a request for a spot. I'm also not shy about asking for a spot in circumstances where I'm nearing the end of that portion of my workout and want/need someone to cover me just in case.


If you need a spot for a set, just ask someone. I think in most gyms even complete strangers are willing to pause long enough to assist.

That's standard weight-room procedure. If someone asks for a spot, you give it, unless you know you're just not capable at the weight that's being lifted. And in that case, you probably won't be asked in the first place. Most lifters will be pleased to help others, when they're asked.

It's no longer an issue with me, because for several years, I've used an old-style Joe Weider machine to do the equivalent of bench-presses, while seated upright.

[Florida2014]

Originally Posted by villageidiot1

Actually I think you are more likely to need a spotter if you are inexperienced. An experienced person has a pretty good ideas how many reps they are going to be able to do. They know they might fail on the 5th rep for example. I've seen inexperienced people who have no idea if they can do one rep or 10. Of course these people are likely to be high school boys.

Disagree. Work on form first and foremost because most people bench press incorrectly, you have to do that with lower weights. Jumping in so heavy that you can't even lift it yourself does no one any good. You'll hurt yourself and be right back at square one.

[villageidiot1]

Originally Posted by Florida2014

Disagree. Work on form first and foremost because most people bench press incorrectly, you have to do that with lower weights. Jumping in so heavy that you can't even lift it yourself does no one any good. You'll hurt yourself and be right back at square one.

I have learned from experience with high school gym classes that boys this age have no idea how much they can lift and overestimate their strength. There is also the ego issue which causes them to attempt to lift heavier weights than they should be lifting. I have learned to be very close when high school boys are doing bench presses.