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October 30.2025
3 Minutes Read

Unlock Your Strength: Master the Close-Grip Bench Press with Joe DeFranco's Insights

Trainer explaining close-grip bench press technique in gym.

Mastering the Close-Grip Bench Press: Key Insights from Joe DeFranco

If you've ever approached the close-grip bench press, you've likely heard conflicting opinions about the best way to execute it. Popular strength coach Joe DeFranco recently took to his Instagram, explaining common mistakes that could hinder your progress, specifically when it comes to form. He emphasizes that proper technique is essential not only for maximizing muscle gains but also for preventing injury.

The Common Misstep to Avoid

According to DeFranco, many lifters think that positioning their hands extremely close on the barbell will place more stress on the triceps. However, this is a misconception. "Most lifters take an extremely close grip, with the inside of their thumbs almost touching," he notes. "This shift puts excessive stress on the wrists and elbows, rather than targeting the triceps as intended."

Recommended Technique: The Narrow Grip Bench Press

DeFranco offers a solution: the narrow grip bench press. This modified technique involves placing your index fingers on the smooth part of the barbell with the remaining fingers resting on the knurled section. This grip allows the lifter to isolate their triceps effectively while maintaining joint health. "It's crucial to find a grip that keeps your wrists, elbows, and shoulders aligned in a safe position," he says. This not only maximizes tricep activation but also helps in building the strong horseshoe shape everyone desires.

Enhancement Through Auxiliary Exercises

In addition to perfecting your close grip, DeFranco encourages integrating specific auxiliary lifts that enhance your bench press. Some effective exercises include isometric holds like prone Y-W-T’s and face pull iso-holds, which strengthen the upper back and improve shoulder stability. These exercises ensure that while you focus on your triceps, you also build the overall musculature required for a powerful bench press.

Why This Matters in Kansas City

For fitness enthusiasts in Kansas City, understanding the mechanics of bench pressing is more relevant than ever. With several local gyms and fitness groups looking to uplift community wellness, having proper form in exercises like the close-grip bench press can set you on the path to achieving your fitness goals without the risk of injury. Furthermore, as the local fitness scene continues to grow, mastering foundational exercises becomes a vital stepping stone towards a more significant progress in strength training.

Key Takeaway: Form Focus For Every Level

The close-grip bench press isn't just for bodybuilders; it's a versatile exercise everyone from beginners to seasoned lifters can incorporate into their training. Understanding how to perform it correctly can help you avoid pain, increase your bench press strength, and enhance your overall performance. So the next time you hit the gym, remember DeFranco's insights, adopt the narrow grip, and feel the difference.

By effectively managing pain points through informed technique, lifting can become an enjoyable and sustainable part of your lifestyle.

If you have a story to share about your fitness journey or want to learn more about effective workout techniques, feel free to reach out to us at team@kansascitythrive.com!

Health & Wellness in KC

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10.30.2025

Unlock Your Potential: Jeff Nippard's Low Volume Training Experiment in Kansas City

Update Revolutionizing Workout Paradigms: Jeff Nippard’s Low Volume Training In the ever-evolving landscape of fitness, the common belief has typically revolved around the notion that more is better. For years, trainers and athletes alike have adhered to a rigorous schedule of intense, high-volume workouts. So, when Jeff Nippard—a renowned fitness coach and advocate of evidence-based training—decided to challenge this paradigm by cutting his workout volume drastically, the fitness world sat up and took notice. What is Low Volume Training? Low volume training refers to the practice of reducing the number of sets or reps in workout routines while maintaining or even increasing the intensity of the exercises performed. Instead of performing multiple sets per exercise, Nippard opted for just one or two, focusing entirely on quality over quantity. This concept isn't just a whim; it reflects a growing body of research suggesting minimal effective doses for muscle gains might yield significant results. The 100-Day Experiment: Results That Speak Volumes Nippard embarked on a 100-day training experiment where he halved his usual workout volume, transitioning from three to four sets per exercise to just one or two. Over the course of this time, he measured several metrics to assess the impact on his physique and performance: Strength increased, with Nippard achieving new personal records even as he trained with less volume. Body fat decreased by a significant 5.5 pounds, showcasing the fat-burning efficacy of this approach. Lean muscle mass experienced only a slight loss of 1.8 pounds, indicating that even at a caloric deficit, he maintained most of his muscle. Why Shorter Workouts Can Yield Better Results “It’s so insane how much better you lock in when you only have two sets to do,” Nippard reflects. This thoughts resonate with many fitness enthusiasts—especially those perpetrating the myth that longer workouts are synonymous with better results. Focusing only on one or two sets per exercise allowed Nippard to lock in his form, focus intensely, and build strength efficiently. Emerging evidence supports this viewpoint, suggesting that beyond a certain volume threshold, increasing sets results in diminishing returns regarding strength and muscle gains. This perspective urges individuals, especially those balancing work and family commitments, to consider the quality of workouts over sheer volume. Low Volume Training: A New Normal for All Levels? When it comes to beginners or those entering a new fitness journey, Nippard's findings present a compelling case for the adoptability of low-volume training. With time constraints being a leading factor for many individuals missing out on workouts, this methodology can fit seamlessly into busy schedules while still promoting effective strength training. Additionally, Nippard claims that the enjoyment factor of training also increased. “Instead of dreading long workouts, I actually can’t wait to train each day.” As a health journalist and someone who champions accessible fitness routines, I see tremendous value in minimizing workout times while maximizing enjoyment and efficiency. What This Means for Kansas City Residents The implications of Nippard's study resonate particularly well within the Kansas City community, where personal trainers and fitness enthusiasts are constantly seeking innovative ways to engage clients and promote healthy lifestyles. With many local businesses focused on optimizing their clients' workout routines, the emphasis on shorter, intensive training sessions may serve as a refreshing, practical option. Gym owners in Kansas City could leverage this low-volume training approach to attract more clients looking for effective yet manageable fitness solutions. For residents contemplating their fitness strategies, embracing a low-volume training approach might be just the shift needed to enhance their physical performance without overwhelming their schedules. In a city that thrives on both community and individualism, effective training strategies can support personal goals while fostering broader fitness engagement. Join the Conversation Have a story to share or want to contact us for more details? Drop us an email at team@kansascitythrive.com and participate in the dialogue about how innovative, evidence-backed training methods can reshape our fitness culture.

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Bill Gates Climate Change Pivot: A Path to Wellness and Innovation in KC

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Transform Your Upper Back: Dana Linn Bailey’s Rear Delt Workout Hack

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