Axle Bar Bench Press

Official Rules

The Rules of the Bench Press apply, but a 2-inch (51 mm) Axle bar will be used during the lift. Kilts are not permitted on lifts where lifters are lying on the ground or on any bench press lift. Officials Commands: Start, Rack

VI.C. Bench Press Rules

The bench shall be placed on the platform with the head facing the front or angled up to 45 degrees. The head referee will be positioned on the head side of the bench press rack. The lifter is not allowed to enter the rack from the head side of the bench press rack.

The lifter must lie on their back with shoulders and buttocks in contact with the bench surface. The feet must be touching the floor, either flat or on the toes. The head does not need to be touching the bench. The lifter’s hands and fingers must grip the bar positioned in the rack stands with a thumb-around grip. This position shall be maintained throughout the lift. To achieve firm footing the lifter may use flat surfaced plates or blocks not exceeding 12 inches (30.5 cm) in height.

Once in the lifting position, the lifter may enlist the help of the spotter, loader or coach in removing the bar from the racks (handoff). The lifter must receive the handoff at arms’ length.

The spacing of the hands shall not exceed 32 inches (81.3 cm) measured between the index fingers (both index fingers must be within the 32-inch, 81.3 cm marks). Alternate or reverse grip is not allowed.

After removing the bar from the racks, the lifter will hold the bar at arm’s length and wait for a “Start” command from the head referee. After receiving the command, the lifter will lower the bar to the chest, then touch the chest with the bar and proceed to push the weight to lockout. The bar may not sink into the chest or be heaved by the lifter to gain additional support. The lifter must then return the bar to straight arms’ length with their elbows locked to the best of their ability. When the bar is locked out and motionless, the head referee will give a “Rack” command, and the lifter will return the bar to the bench press rack. Kilts are not permitted on lifts where lifters are lying on the ground or on any bench press lift.

1. Causes for Disqualification of a Bench Press

• Failure to observe the Chief Referee’s “Start” or “Rack” commands during the lift.
• Raising the butt or shoulders or changing the elected lifting position during the lift.
• Heaving or sinking the bar into the chest or abdominal area in a way as to make the lift easier.
• Any downward movement of the bar in the course of being pressed out.
• Failure to press the bar to arm’s length with elbows locked to the best of their ability at the completion of the lift.
• Any deliberate contact between the bar and the bar rest supports.
• Failure to comply with any of the items outlined under the Rules of Performance.