Authors
Joshua A. Kidwell, [1]Creighton University School of Medicine, Omaha, NE, USA, [2]Airway and UC Fit Digital Health Exercise Physiology Research Laboratory, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
Trent Yamamoto, [1]Airway and UC Fit Digital Health Exercise Physiology Research Laboratory, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA, [2]Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
Kyle J. Hetherton, Airway and UC Fit Digital Health Exercise Physiology Research Laboratory, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
Nathan Truneh, Airway and UC Fit Digital Health Exercise Physiology Research Laboratory, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
Jacob J. Bright, Airway and UC Fit Digital Health Exercise Physiology Research Laboratory, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
August E. Blatney, Airway and UC Fit Digital Health Exercise Physiology Research Laboratory, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
Phillip Goldman, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
Eric Neufeld, [1]Northwell Orthopedics. New Hyde Park, NY, USA, [2]Long Island Jewish Medical Center/North Shore University Hospital. New Hyde Park, NY, USA
Brett A. Dolezal, Airway and UC Fit Digital Health Exercise Physiology Research Laboratory, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
International Journal of Exercise Science 19(1): 1-12, 2026.
DOI: 10.70252/IJES2026103
Abstract
This study investigated the acute effects of thoracic-spinal elevation, applied via a novel Bench Press Assist Device (BPAD), on pectoralis major activation and barbell kinetics during submaximal bench pressing. Ten resistance- trained males (23 ± 3 y) completed a randomized, single-blind, crossover trial performing five repetitions at 70 % 1-RM under standard flat bench and BPAD conditions. Bilateral surface electromyography (sEMG) assessed pectoralis major activation, while a linear position transducer recorded mean and peak barbell velocity, concentric power, and range of motion (ROM). Compared with the flat-bench condition, the BPAD produced significant increases in mean and peak velocity, bilateral pectoralis major activation (all p < 0.001), and ROM (p = 0.005). Concentric power rose by approximately 9 % but did not reach statistical significance, likely reflecting the fixed external load and the force–velocity trade-off at submaximal intensities. The observed gains in velocity and muscle activation indicate that thoracic elevation enhances mechanical efficiency and neuromuscular engagement during pressing without altering load demands. By facilitating thoracic extension and scapular retraction, the BPAD may improve length–tension relationships and joint alignment, yielding a smoother bar path and greater bilateral muscle symmetry. These findings highlight posture-focused interventions as a simple means to refine pressing mechanics, increase movement efficiency, and potentially reduce shoulder stress, likely driven by improved scapulothoracic mechanics and neural coordination. Future research should examine chronic adaptations to repeated use of thoracic elevation and its applicability across sexes, training levels, and varied load intensities.
Recommended Citation
Kidwell, Joshua A.; Yamamoto, Trent; Hetherton, Kyle J.; Truneh, Nathan; Bright, Jacob J.; Blatney, August E.; Goldman, Phillip; Neufeld, Eric; Dolezal, Brett A. (2026) “Acute Effects of Thoracic-Spinal Elevation via a Novel Bench Press Pad on sEMG and Barbell Kinetics in Resistance-Trained Males,” International Journal of Exercise Science: Vol. 19 : Iss. 1, Pages 1-12.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.70252/IJES2026103