The "first" rep of dumbbell bench presses

[Tom Lang]

When I roll back, dumbbells in hand, I basically have to push them up from the bottom to get set up, then begin my set.

I have not counted this "rep" as part of my sets, but an 80lb dumbbell has to start at the bottom for me (until I get some of curl bros to hand them to me). So should I count it, or not?

I don't mean to make this sound like a dumb question, but there it is.

[phynnboi]

Why not count reps bottom-to-bottom instead of top-to-top? There's no competition for the DB bench, so you don't have to make it exactly like a BB bench.

[Michael Wolf]

Not a dumb question. Watch this video in full because it's interesting and full of good info, but your question is addressed starting around the 13 minute mark: http://startingstrength.com/index.ph..._dumbbell_rack

[Tom Lang]

Thanks, guys.

[Dastardly]

I always count the first rep unless I cheat it up by lifting hips/twisting body. A strict first rep from the bottom is HARDER than reps with stretch reflex, so you would be silly not to count them.

[Shaun]

Yeah I count it. You lifted it up, don't see why you couldn't count it.

[Marine]

shit just got real.....

[Tom Lang]

Not a dumb question. Watch this video in full because it's interesting and full of good info, but your question is addressed starting around the 13 minute mark: http://startingstrength.com/index.ph..._dumbbell_rack

The best part is how to roll yourself onto and off the bench, and never drop them. And when rolling on, the DBs are more or less in the up position.

But I agree, if I start at the bottom, I'll count the rep.

Thanks again.

[Michael Wolf]

Agree with both- the technique in the video solves the problem. But if for some reason you don't use it, count the rep from the bottom.

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