Not a bench to press on.

[IPNDTP]

Dear Coach Rip,
I train from home and am currently saving money to purchase a bench. What substitute for the bench press would you recommend performing in the interim (e.g., pressing from the floor, push-ups)?
Thank you,
IPNDTP

[Mark Rippetoe]

How long till you have the money?

[IPNDTP]

Hi Sir,
Thank you for your prompt reply. I would think a month’s time, maybe six weeks at the most. I’m a novice and have no need for an expensive or even brand new bench rated for elite poundage. My primary focus is safety through avoiding junk, however, I can also appreciate the argument that a new or used generic bench might meet the current needs of a rank novice such as myself.
Thank You,
IPNDTP

[Mark Rippetoe]

You ought to be able to build one out of lumber for about $50, tops. Get a good one later, when you're strong enough to need it.

[AndrewLewis]

I made one similar to this. It served me well up to 315lb.

Homemade Strength: The strongest bench you'll never buy

[m_sporkboy]

I built this one: YouTube
It feels rock solid.

[Phill]

My bench is made from left over lengths of hardwood posts with the top consisting of the padding from a garage creeper after I used the frame and castors for an engine/transmission cradle.

Point is, you can make a bench out of cheap junk and use it for a very long time or you can save up for a very long time while not benching.

[This Old Man]

OP, do you have two chairs of equal height? Dips can be a great temporary substitute for benching, provided you do them correctly and don't irritate your shoulders. If your chairs are flimsy (like mine), you can take a few weeks and work your way up to three or four sets of twenty at bodyweight. If they are more robust you can add weight and progress a little longer.