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Bench Press Maximum Power Test

The NHL Bench Press Test is an upper body muscular strength-power test. Athletes bench press 50% of their body weight as quickly as possible for three reps, with maximum power measured. A "Gym Aware" device is used to measure the velocity of the bar and the athlete's ability to produce power.



test purpose: to measure maximum power of the chest muscle groups.

equipment required: standard padded bench with safety catch, standard weight barbell, and various free weights, "Gym Aware" device.

pre-test: Explain the test procedures to the subject. Perform screening of health risks and obtain informed consent. Prepare forms and record basic information such as age, height, body weight, gender, test conditions. Perform an appropriate warm-up. See more details of pre-test procedures.

procedure: The bar is set at approximately 50% of body weight, based on the table below. A "Gym Aware" device is attached to the bar. The athlete lies on his back on the bench and the bar is grasped with thumbs approximately at shoulder width apart. The buttocks must remain on the bench with the feet on the floor. The starting position of the bar is touching the chest at approximately the axillary line and the bar is pushed to full extension of the arms. Athletes bench press the weight as quickly as possible for three reps, pausing shortly between reps, with maximum power measured using the attached device.

Body Weight (lbs) Test Weight Performed (lbs.)
155-164 80
165-174 85
175-184 90
185-194 95
195-204 100
205-214 105
215-224 110
225-234 115
235 and above 120

scoring: The reported score from the "Gym Aware" device is recorded in watts/kg.Bench Press Test

results: From the 2018 NHL Combine, the best result was 8.25 watts/kg by Rasmus Kupari (see more at NHL combine results).

disadvantages: This test should only be performed by those experienced at performing the bench press lift with good technique. Good technique will also enable the lifter to maximize their score. The specific 'Gym Aware' device is required, though there may be others that also measure the same thing.

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