Mike believe me I know that the research and work you put into this product is more than I could imagine.
I have been using some of your tips on bench lately with the beginning of our newest phase and I tell you going
up 30 pounds in bench in 2 weeks has me excited to learn what is going to help me reach that next level when I
set up at the bench and watch people stare.
- Joey Scheerle
Critical Bench is a fantastic program . I was stuck at a maximum bench of 225lbs for nearly a year. I went into the program skeptically. I'm the classic tall-and-skinny body type, and I thought I had reached my body's genetic strength limit. But week by week my bench went up, right on schedule. On the 11th week, I benched 280. I can't recommend the Critical Bench program highly enough. I'm about to start it again, and I can't wait. I'll see you in the 300lb club soon.
- Rob Ziegler
Mike -
Just wanted to let you know my SUCCESS with your program. Seeing how I have not been "into it" lifting wise for several years, I tested my max and found it to be a dismal 240 pounds.
Following your CBP workout for 10 weeks actually had me lose more than 15 pounds and gain 65 pounds on my max! Can't tell you how ecstatic I was with a 300+ bench press.
The workouts were tough - seemed like a lot of shoulder work, but worth it in the end.
Thanks!
Brian Jackson
Sports Information Director
Head Strength Coach
Head Track Coach
Assistant Football Coach
Crestwood High School
Greetings,
Well it has been about a year, but I wanted you to know that I have increased my bench from 465 to 545.5. I competed in March 2007 (USPF) at the California State championships, where I hit the 465 unequipped. Later in the year I went to 473 then approached 500 before I made the decision to put on a single-ply.
In my first competition (2008 USPF California State Championships) with a single-ply Katana, I hit 545.5 on my opener for a new 242 submaster California state single lift record. I’ve begun training more with my shirt now, but I wanted to thank you for the tips and guidance that I have incorporated into my speed days. My goal is to get to the 600’s, so we’ll see how that goes. At any rate, I still proudly wear my Critical Bench shirt and direct people to your site when asked about it. Thanks again.
Dennis Reneau
My name is lee garner and I am 48 years old this year or is it 8 lol seams that way, any how I have been training off and on for years I am a D.T.I instructor as well as a I.F.A instructor and I teach Scuba diving, and computers. But I just love the bench and shoulder press im doing 540lbs on the bench and 528 on the shoulder my squat is very low due to an injury when doing strongman comp in the ussr I do very well in triceps as well I spend hours just on them makes my arms look so dam big lol and I love it heee heee I am not a body builder and im to old now to try and complete in comps and even in m,art comps as the training I have got from the army and in the streets not good for the ring lol and as a old fart it don’t work, but I am proud of who and what I am I read your site most wks and have got many books and tips from you guys and find I have only just started to learn more about things I train mostly on my own but have a friend who trains with me in the mornings.
My training has increased since I have started to read your book I am now watching my eating as well I eat well but no crap in the wk but at the wkends I eat what I want I am trying to do 560lbs by the time im 50 years old at the moment im doing 200kg shoulder press and want to have that to be 260kg by the end of year.
So im 6ft 5 and weigh in at shw as im over 310lbs.
Thanks Lee
My deadlift is 565 and bench is 390 - I squat 600. I'm 265 lbs and I work out at the Sugarhouse Gold's Gym in SLC, UT. I read how to increase my bench on your site and changed my style of dress to warm and use negative loading when I can find spotters. My sore shoulder is improving.
Anonymous
"I am 56 years old and when I decided to start weight training again I did not have a clue, I had goals but I did not have any direction until I got a hold of Critical Bench. I went from doing 175 on a bench bench machine to 300lb real bench, on schedule. I trained and protected my shoulder joints from injury by sticking with the program . There were some days when I wondered what I was doing but I kept going to the gym. My squats and overall performance has improved to the point where I do not want to stop. This training program has impacted my personal life and my professional life. When I started training I was not quite sure how it would go, but with the guide and routines it made it happen. I think I can even do better and I am looking forward to do so. If you think you are over the hill, stop that stinking thinking, get on the bench press program and start training."
Jim McKiernan, Doctor of Chiropractic, Kalispell Montana
Hey Mike,
Just thought I would drop you a line. I just completed my custom
bench program and I am very happy. I went from 330lbs. to 365lbs.
with no problem. After a few weeks I will be setting my sights on a
400lb bench. Thanks for the incredible program.
Keep Lifting, Steve O'Keefe.
Hey guys,
Just wanted to send a testimony of my own. I've been trying different techniques, programs and supplements off and on for years and never have I gained such fast, positive and astonishing gains. I'm in the Active Army and don't have a whole lot of time or money to invest into getting the results that I've been after for a long time. Recently I was browsing the web and looking at bench press records, how too's to gain strength, ect... and I cam across your page. After reading through everything I decided to order a bench press shirt and try your techniques with a little tweaking of my own. I got the shirt and practiced the form with light weight for a couple of days then I decided to hit the gym for a work out. I worked out with the bench shirt applying your techniques for two weeks then I decided to max out. The results were amazing!!! In just under two weeks I went from a max correct bench press of 315lbs to a long desired goal of 405lbs.
I couldn't believe it. I had finally did it and it's mostly thanks to you guys. Not only did I gain a 90 pound increase in just two weeks but working out with the shirt combined with the techniques I gained about 10 pounds of solid muscle, 3 1/2 inches around the chest and shoulders and 1 1/4 inches around the arms. I feel great and stronger than ever. I'm only 5ft 6 inches tall and weigh 183 pouns with a 50 inch chest and 16.25 inch biceps. Just want to give a big thanks to you guys for having the only technique and tips that actually work.
SSG Leon Boudreaux
Ft. Polk, La
"I did this program several months ago
starting with a max of 315 and ended with a max of 390 and just missing 405.
I have taken it easy for a while and am ready for another go. I really like
this program, it does work. Also, i had given up on doing shoulders(
military and behind the neck) and because of rotator problems years ago.
After starting slow i found i had no pain eventually working up to 225 for
sets of 4 on the military press. My shoulders have never felt better. Thanks again."
Bryan Osborn
My bench increased about 35 lbs.
after using the >ritical Bench program for 6 weeks. I benched 405 in the Biggest Bench
on the Beach contest. It was a co-efficient lift and my finish was 1.76
co-eff. getting 1st in the 226-250 wt. class. I am 31 yrs old, 5'-8" tall
and weigh 235 lbs. Thanks.
Your friend in Iowa
Cameron
I have great news, I got up 360!
About midway through between week 5 and 6 I had the flu and missed a few
workouts, I can't help wondering if I hadn't maybe I would have hit 365.
How long should I wait before starting the program over again? Are the
amounts in the workout based on a percentage of your current max or your
goal? You'll be hearing from me when I hit 400, which thanks to you
shouldn't be too long. This is the first product ever, including all the
"magic" routines in the muscle mags that delivered what was promised and
then some. The whole bench system has made me stronger in every way, I can't
thank you enough.
Thanks again and take care,
Dustin George
Hi Mike,
I'm emailing you to give you news from my training.I just finished it yesterday. I was on the critical bench program. I achieved a 30 pounds increase on my 1-rep max on the bench press going from 265 to 295lbs which I consider good.It's an average of 3lbs a week.But I missed my goal by 20 lbs.I know 300 is a psychological obstacle.I also had to overcome 2 major obstacles during the course of my training we have to move on another gym due to repairs to our gym.I get to deal with other equipment and other bench which wasn't evident.and the other obstacle.I had problems with a sore hand maybe a little nerve or a little bone I don't know.It was really bothering specially when you want to grip hard on the bar.But in a near future I know I will max on he 300+lbs.Hope have your comments back soon.
Donald Lavoie
I have always wanted to be in the 300 lb club and finally got there today, benching 300 even. I am Hunter Furr 15 years old. I increaded my bench press 75 lbs in 8 weeks. Every one wants to know how I increaded my bench, with the program I got great results, my goal is to bench 350 by the end of my sophomore year in high school.
Hunter Furr
Hi my name is Adam Hanna. I'm 17 years old and I attend St. Amant High School. I have increased my bench max from 305 to 365. I 'm in the wieghting lifting class at my high school and I did this in class. Critical bench along with my wieght lifting class as helped me increase my bench max steadily. I wiegh 136 lbs and my hieght is 5'9
Adam Hanna
"Mike, I want to thank you for your Critical Bench Program. I followed the program
to a fault just like you suggested. I started out at the beginning of the
program benching 255 1-2 times at the end of the workout, and week #10 I did
305 at the end of the bench workout. I maxed out last week, I did 315 one
time with ease. I had a trainer that day, and he says that I can do between
325-345 one time by the speed in which I pushed the 315 up. Anyway thanks, I
got my name put up on the contest board for my weight class with that max
out."
Shawn Saunders
I used the critical bench program as a way to increase my bench press before
and during football season. It worked great. i increased my bench press
about 20 pounds before i got sick. Critical bench is a very fundamental
program that will put on muscle every time you use it if your willing to put
in the work. It has helped me become a better football player also. Thanks
mike."
-Pat Creahan
Hi Mike,
Thanks for your advice on the stretch...that really seemed to help the rest of the way, along with the wearing of the belt.
I completed your program yesterday!
I set out with a goal...a life goal to bench 300 lbs before I Croak....I almost hit it 10 years ago..but had to stop at 275 and then had wrist surgery...never lifted since then. Then about 6 months agao I decided to go for it...started from 150 lb bench and worked my way to 265. I reached a peak where I could not lift even a single lb more than that 11 weeks ago. Thats when I decided to buy your program. I am absolutely convinced that I would never of succeeded without your tailored, structured program. I followed it to the tee up until my slight injury there..but got back on track ( I never did repeat the week....just kept going ..up in weight every time)
The only serious flaw I made in the program was that
I fasted last week from friday night to sat night(religious holiday) and failed on my 300 rep last sunday.
I then worked out hard all week...followed all your advice and this sunday (max out day) I decided to only go for 300....I put it up like it was nothing...not even a slight pause. I then decided to throw another 5 on there..and successfully put up 305 with gusto!....the truth is on that first rep I probably could of put up 315.....but I am satisfied with meeting my life goal and appreciate your program.
I suppose now I will have to work on my chicken legs to catch up.....but not bad for a 35yr old guy.
I would reccomend your bench program to anyone!
thanks again
-Mark Karen
Hey Mike,
Things are still going well w/ your program. I gotta thank you man I'm definitely the strongest I've ever been and working harder than I ever have before. I had a question about leg day. Would it be a good idea to add in front squats in the place of leg press? j/w because I'm craving some front squats.
Thanks, Marc
Well mike the programl is finally completed had a little trouble locking out the 385lb max
I had a week set back because of the flu but the program was right on the button. My gym was limited, no power rack, dumbells maxed 80lb but I have learned more about myself with this problem than anyve done in my life and I really believe that the sky is the limit.I'M READY TO START THE PROGRAM AGAIN NEXT STOP 400 PLUS POUNDS.BUT
THE JOINTS NEED A BREAK FROM ALL THAT HEAVY LIFTING. THANKS FOR EVERYTHING AARON. PS, OTHER THAN THE LOCKOUT THE WEIGHT WENT UP VERY EASY.
Aaron Wilson
Mike, Just finished the critical bench routine for a second time. Gained about 20-25 lbs off it. Which was plenty for me considering I haven't been taking supplements. Endurance however is shot, so I'll be doing higher reps for a bit then hitting the routine hard again for a third time! Couldn't be any happier with it, Thanks!
Nick.
I used your program a little over a year ago. I started w/ a max of 315. I ended the critical bench program 10 weeks later with a 355lb max. That was the end of my senior year in highschool, I was 18, 6'1 225. Since then, I have increased my max by an incredible 100lbs. I have now benched at 19, 6'2 250, 455lbs. I plan to hit 475 next week!
Thanks for everything I learned in The Critical Bench Program.
~Jeff
Jeff Benching 450
"Mike:
Thanks for the response. I really appreciate it.
You know, in large part to your program, I have brought my bench from a max of 225 to nearly 405 in less than 2 years."
Jarrod J. Williamson, Ph.D.
Proud supporter of the Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund
http://www.SemperFiFund.org
i just wanted to tell you how inspirational your program, and website is. I've been lifting for about 4 years and your program is the first i've come across that recommends more than supplements and gear, it's nice to get the mental, technique, and dietary advice that your program contains. I read the whole thing like 3 times in June when i first purchased it, and always wanted to write and tell you how inspirational the program is. Thanks again
max hughey
I have recently finished your critical bench program and was very pleased with the results. I gained 45 pounds in my bench press during the 10 weeks.
My new max is now 305 and I loved the results. I am currently a sophomore at southlake carroll high school in Texas who I play football for. I am definitely planning on using your program again asap, but in the program you mentioned you could not make a back to back jump. I was wondering if you could assist me by telling me what exercises I should do in the mean time and when should I start critical bench again. I play defensive end and am looking for a D-1 scholarship by my senior year. I would love for a massive bench press to impress the scouts with and I believe your program can get me where I want. If you have any advice on lifting or football, that would be awesome. Thanks for your help and a great program.
Brayden Burnett
Hi, my bench is now 365lbs so a 25 pound increase on previous best. I'm glad I purchased the program, I am quite an experienced lifter but I learned a few new things so thanks for that. I'll try the program again at some time soon as my aim is to press at least 400 by the end of the year. Thanks once again.
Glen
mrorange1979 at hotmail.co.uk
i am a sophmore at shadesvalley high school,and i bench about 240 in my freshman year,and its really bother me because i couldnt increase my bench press,so one of my friend introduce this critical bench program,and it really help me alot,after about 3 month i was able to bench 315 for 1 rep,so yeah,i recomment critical bench program,now i am the strongest one in the whole school,my max is 330 now
chenjui Cheng
Thanks Mike,
I just finished the 12 week critical bench and it sure works I managed 5
reps at 270 with a starting bench of 1rep at 220...Cheers
Andrew
The critical Bench program surpassed my expectations. I started out at 225 on my bench after 10 weeks I have supassed the 50 pound goal by 30 pounds. I am now benching a good 305. Thanks so much for the program and I would recommend it to everyone.
Travis Chambers
Camp Taji, Iraq
Hey mike first I want to thank u for this program my bench was 170 a year ago and I completely changed my diet and made the gym my new home and my bench is up to 275 and im still gaining thanks for everything, my question is how long should i take off before starting it again I've only got 2 weeks left ( my 2nd time doing it) and I really want to be over 300lbs by this summer, thanks agian for making a system that actually works and isnt just a miracle way to get stronger.
My name is lee garner and I am 48 years old this year or is it 8 lol seams that way, any how I have been training off and on for years I am a D.T.I instructor as well as a I.F.A instructor and I teach Scuba diving, and computers. But I just love the bench and shoulder press im doing 540lbs on the bench and 528 on the shoulder my squat is very low due to an injury when doing strongman comp in the ussr I do very well in triceps as well I spend hours just on them makes my arms look so dam big lol and I love it heee heee I am not a body builder and im to old now to try and complete in comps and even in m,art comps as the training I have got from the army and in the streets not good for the ring lol and as a old fart it don’t work, but I am proud of who and what I am I read your site most wks and have got many books and tips from you guys and find I have only just started to learn more about things I train mostly on my own but have a friend who trains with me in the mornings.
My training has increased since I have started to read your book I am now watching my eating as well I eat well but no crap in the wk but at the wkends I eat what I want I am trying to do 560lbs by the time im 50 years old at the moment im doing 200kg shoulder press and want to have that to be 260kg by the end of year.
i am a sophmore at shadesvalley high school,and i bench about 240 in my freshman year,and its really bother me because i couldnt increase my bench press,so one of my friend introduce this critical bench program,and it really help me alot,after about 3 month i was able to bench 315 for 1 rep,so yeah,i recomment critical bench program,now i am the strongest one in the whole school,my max is 330 now
