Proper pushing motion on flat bench do you know it?

[firestorm]

I've seen time and time again something I'm sure MANY people here also do when performing flat bench presses. That is bringing the bar down across the middle of your chest (which is correct) and pushing the bar straight up through the same path which is over the middle of the chest (parellel movement like this: | ). This IS acceptable but not the best way. If you really want to perform the bench press and get the optimal effect, try bringing the bar down over the middle of your chest(nipple area) but instead of pressing straight up,, press up but back over your face in one motion. the angle of the movement looks more like this \\ . give it a try and you will see what I mean.

 

[Scotty the Body]

The second way you explained would be the natural range of motion, I don't think I could even push it straight up like your first example.
This is one reason why 90 degree smith machines don't feel right doing bench work.

 

[firestorm]

right on Scotty..we're on the same frequency.