shoulder blade retraction during bench press

[Alceste]

I have recently reread the bench press chapter in the book and I wondered about shoulder blade retraction. The instructions in the book say to retract the shoulder blades. However many bench tutorials on YT and other sourced claim that the shoulder blades should not only be retracted but also pushed down. Would the latter have any benefit? Or would it even have negative consequences?

[Mark Rippetoe]

If you retract the scapulas and lift the chest, the same thing occurs. But use the cue that works for you.

[Alceste]

okay I see thanks!