Does push press help strict press? This is a question that often arises among weightlifters and strength coaches. The push press and the strict press are both compound exercises that target the shoulders, upper back, and triceps. While they share some similarities, they also have distinct differences. In this article, we will explore whether the push press can benefit the strict press and vice versa.
The push press is a powerlifting exercise that involves pressing a barbell from the shoulders to overhead using the legs, hips, and shoulders. It is often used as a strength-building exercise to develop explosive power and improve overall pressing strength. On the other hand, the strict press is a more technical exercise that focuses on pressing a barbell from the shoulders to overhead using only the shoulders and arms. It requires precise form and control to execute correctly.
One of the main advantages of the push press is that it allows lifters to handle heavier weights than they can with the strict press. This is because the push press utilizes the legs and hips to generate power, which takes some of the load off the shoulders and arms. As a result, lifters can increase their overall pressing strength and potentially improve their strict press performance.
However, the push press also has some drawbacks when it comes to the strict press. Since the push press involves more body movement and uses the legs and hips to generate power, it can sometimes lead to less focus on the shoulders and arms. This can make it more challenging to transfer the strength gained from the push press to the strict press. Additionally, the push press may encourage a more upright torso position, which can be detrimental to the technique required for the strict press.
On the other hand, the strict press can help improve the technique and strength of the push press. By focusing on the shoulders and arms and maintaining a strict form, lifters can develop better control and stability. This can translate into better performance on the push press, as lifters learn to use their entire body more efficiently to generate power.
In conclusion, while the push press and the strict press are both valuable exercises for developing pressing strength, they have different focuses and techniques. The push press can help improve overall pressing strength, but it may not directly translate to better performance on the strict press. Conversely, the strict press can help improve technique and control, which can benefit the push press. It is important for lifters to understand the differences between these exercises and to incorporate both into their training programs to maximize their gains. Whether or not the push press helps the strict press depends on the individual and their specific goals.
