04/25/2026
Jay Cutler has always been known for his smart approach to training, not just lifting heavy weights. When he talks about the bench press, his opinion surprises many people. He calls it the “standard” exercise in the gym—but also believes it’s not the best choice for bodybuilding.
For most people, the bench press is the first exercise they think of when building a big chest. It’s popular, it’s simple, and it allows lifters to move heavy weight. But Cutler points out an important problem: just because an exercise is popular doesn’t mean it’s the safest or most effective for muscle growth.
According to him, the bench press puts a lot of stress on the shoulder joints. Over time, this pressure can lead to injuries, especially if the form is not perfect or if someone is lifting too heavy. One of the most serious injuries he mentions is a torn pec muscle. This kind of injury doesn’t just stop progress—it can take months to recover and may never fully heal.
In bodybuilding, the goal is not just to lift heavy but to build muscle safely and consistently. Cutler believes there are better chest exercises that reduce injury risk while still giving great results. Movements like controlled dumbbell presses or machine work allow better range of motion and put less strain on the shoulders.
His message is simple: don’t follow the crowd blindly. Just because everyone is doing bench press doesn’t mean you have to rely on it. Focus on exercises that help you grow while keeping your body safe.
In the end, longevity matters more than ego lifting. Building a great physique takes years, and avoiding injuries is just as important as training hard.
