Reviewed exercise · intermediate

Close-Grip Barbell Bench Press

A primary horizontal push movement for triceps, chest.

Equipment

barbell, bench

Typical range

4–12 reps

Also trains

shoulders

Set up

Prepare the close-grip barbell bench press station and choose a load that permits full control.

Execute

Use a shoulder-width grip that keeps wrists over forearms

Complete the final repetition with the same controlled path, then return the load safely.

Coaching cues

• Elbows follow the bar
• Use a repeatable pain-free range.

Common mistakes

• Choosing an unnecessarily narrow grip
• Adding load after position or control is lost.

Modify or stop when relevant discomfort is reported. Educational content does not diagnose injury.