i have read (here actually: www.swimdcac.org/.../article5.html) that the bench press does more harm than good for swimmers. what is everyone else's opinion (and experience)??
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Former Member
However, the best muscle building for the triceps will come from doing dips.
I'm not convinced this is true. Yes dips are very demanding of the triceps. But dips also require your shoulder joint to bear most of your body weight.
Triceps can be worked in isolation very easily - with a standing push down via bar+cable or with dumbbells - one or both triceps at a time. Each of these alternatives avoid stress on the shoulder joint itself.
In college (many many years ago) I was a big bench presser. I added strength and size easily. But I just started a weights program and so far am not doing any bench at all. For several reasons - 1) my shoulders are a bit fragile now, 2) I just don't see the value to any swimming stroke to have an unusually strong pectoral muscle.
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Former Member
However, the best muscle building for the triceps will come from doing dips.
I'm not convinced this is true. Yes dips are very demanding of the triceps. But dips also require your shoulder joint to bear most of your body weight.
Triceps can be worked in isolation very easily - with a standing push down via bar+cable or with dumbbells - one or both triceps at a time. Each of these alternatives avoid stress on the shoulder joint itself.
In college (many many years ago) I was a big bench presser. I added strength and size easily. But I just started a weights program and so far am not doing any bench at all. For several reasons - 1) my shoulders are a bit fragile now, 2) I just don't see the value to any swimming stroke to have an unusually strong pectoral muscle.
