The biggest bench press is one of the most impressive feats in strength sports, showcasing a lifter’s power and technique. It refers to the maximum weight lifted in the bench press exercise, with records often pushing the limits of human strength. Achieving the biggest bench press requires years of dedicated training, discipline, and mastery of form. World records are determined based on the highest successful lifts, either raw (without equipment) or equipped (using a bench press shirt). Breaking these records is significant, as it not only sets new benchmarks but also inspires lifters worldwide to push their boundaries. In this post, we will explore the biggest bench press records, their history, and their impact on the sport.
What Is the World Record Bench Press?
The world record bench press represents the highest amount of weight ever successfully lifted in a bench press. This achievement is highly coveted among strength athletes and is seen as one of the ultimate tests of upper body power. Bench press records can be achieved in two categories: raw (without any equipment) and equipped (with a bench press shirt). Both categories are significant within the powerlifting community, but each has its own set of rules and challenges.
In raw bench pressing, lifters only use basic equipment like wrist wraps and a lifting belt for support. The focus is entirely on the lifter’s strength, technique, and training. On the other hand, equipped bench pressing allows the use of a specialized bench press shirt, which provides additional support and assistance during the lift. This equipment significantly enhances the lifter’s ability to press heavier weights.
The biggest bench press records, both raw and equipped, are not just milestones in strength sports; they also represent human potential and the pursuit of excellence. These records are seen as benchmarks that motivate lifters worldwide to push their boundaries. Today, we will examine the current world record bench press, looking at both raw and equipped records, and explore their significance within the powerlifting community.
Raw Bench Press World Record
The raw bench press world record is one of the most prestigious achievements in strength sports. Raw bench pressing refers to lifting without the aid of specialized equipment like a bench press shirt. Only basic gear such as wrist wraps or a lifting belt is permitted, ensuring that the lifter’s strength is the primary factor in the performance. This type of lifting is often regarded as the purest form of the bench press.
As of today, the biggest raw bench press world record stands at 355 kg (782 lbs), set by Julius Maddox. This feat was achieved in 2023, solidifying Maddox as the undisputed raw bench press king. His record is a testament to years of dedication, intense training, and mastery of technique. To lift such an enormous weight without any assistance from a bench press shirt is a remarkable achievement, one that pushes the boundaries of human strength.
Factors Influencing the Raw Bench Press World Record
Several factors contribute to a lifter’s ability to achieve the biggest bench press in the raw category. These factors include genetic potential, muscle mass, technique, and training age.
- Genetic Potential: Every lifter has a unique genetic makeup that determines how much muscle mass they can build and how their body responds to strength training. Some individuals naturally have the capacity to lift heavier weights, especially in exercises like the bench press.
- Muscle Mass and Body Composition: A lifter’s muscle mass plays a significant role in their ability to perform heavy lifts. Raw bench press records are often set by individuals with a high amount of lean muscle, particularly in the chest, triceps, and shoulders. Having optimal body composition, where fat is minimized and muscle is maximized, can lead to better performance in bench pressing.
- Technique and Training: Proper bench press technique is vital for lifting the heaviest weight. Lifters must be well-versed in the proper setup, grip, and bar path. Additionally, years of focused training are necessary to develop the physical and mental strength required for breaking records.
Each of these factors combines to allow lifters to achieve incredible feats of strength, like the raw bench press world record, and contributes to the ongoing evolution of the sport.
Raw Bench Press World Record Holders
Throughout the history of powerlifting, several lifters have held the title of raw bench press world record holder. However, Julius Maddox’s achievement in 2023 is particularly notable, as it represents the pinnacle of raw bench press lifting. Maddox’s relentless dedication to his craft, combined with his immense strength, made him the lifter to beat in the raw category. His record-setting performance continues to inspire the next generation of lifters to pursue the biggest bench press possible.
While Maddox’s achievement is the most recent, other notable lifters have come close to this milestone in the past. For instance, the record was previously held by bench press legends such as Ryan Kennelly, who achieved a lift of 340 kg (750 lbs) in 2008. These performances have built the foundation for today’s biggest raw bench press record and demonstrate the continuous progression of the sport.
The Importance of the Raw Bench Press World Record
The raw bench press world record holds great significance in the powerlifting community. It symbolizes the unassisted strength of an athlete and is seen as the true test of upper body power. Unlike equipped bench pressing, where specialized gear plays a role in the lift, raw bench pressing showcases the lifter’s natural ability.
Breaking the raw bench press world record is a monumental achievement in strength sports. It challenges athletes to push their physical and mental limits and serves as a symbol of excellence within the powerlifting community. Maddox’s record has elevated the raw bench press to new heights, pushing other athletes to focus on building raw strength and improving their techniques in hopes of one day surpassing this remarkable achievement.
Equipped Bench Press World Record
The biggest equipped bench press world record is held by Jimmy Kolb, who set the record in 2023 with an astonishing 635 kg (1,401 lbs). Unlike raw bench pressing, equipped bench pressing involves the use of specialized equipment such as a bench press shirt. This gear helps lifters handle significantly more weight, providing additional support during the press. The biggest bench press in this category is a testament to both human strength and the capabilities of modern equipment.
In the context of equipped bench pressing, records are typically much higher than those in the raw category. The use of equipment, while offering an advantage, still requires lifters to possess incredible power, technique, and control. Jimmy Kolb’s achievement of 635 kg is the current benchmark, and it stands as the highest equipped bench press in history. This record highlights the incredible feats that athletes can achieve with the assistance of equipment and is a defining moment in powerlifting history.
The biggest bench press, whether raw or equipped, represents the highest levels of strength and determination in the powerlifting world. Each record, from Julius Maddox’s raw bench press to Jimmy Kolb’s equipped lift, showcases the boundaries being pushed by athletes worldwide. These records inspire new generations to chase greatness, striving for strength beyond what was thought possible. The quest for the biggest bench press will continue to drive the sport forward, evolving as new techniques, training methods, and lifters emerge.
Biggest Bench Press: Women’s World Record Bench Press
Women’s involvement in powerlifting has grown significantly over the years, with many setting remarkable records in the bench press category. The biggest bench press records for women have evolved, showcasing how women continue to break barriers in strength sports. Today, the world record for the women’s equipped bench press stands at 317.5 kg (700 lbs), set by Ashleigh Hoeta in 2023. This incredible lift highlights the immense potential of female lifters and their ability to compete at the highest levels of strength.
Factors Contributing to Women’s Bench Press Records
Several factors play a role in the development of the biggest bench press records for women. Genetics, training, body composition, and hormonal influences are some of the most critical aspects. Women generally have lower testosterone levels compared to men, which may limit their muscle-building potential. However, with specialized training programs and optimal nutrition, female lifters have been able to close the gap between themselves and their male counterparts.
In addition, proper technique, equipment, and mental fortitude all contribute to achieving exceptional bench press performances. Women who have broken world records, such as Ashleigh Hoeta, demonstrate that strength is not solely determined by muscle mass but also by mastery of technique and resilience in competition. These factors combine to produce some of the most remarkable female bench press records in history.
Raw Women’s Bench Press World Record
The raw bench press world record for women has also seen impressive growth. The current record is held by April Mathis, who achieved a lift of 207.5 kg (457.4 lbs) in 2016. Raw bench pressing, which involves lifting without the aid of any specialized equipment like a bench press shirt, is considered the most authentic form of the lift. This record demonstrates the immense strength and dedication required to lift such heavy weights with minimal assistance.
While the raw bench press record for women may not yet reach the levels seen in the equipped category, it is still a highly significant achievement. The raw category showcases the lifter’s pure strength and technique. The importance of these raw records cannot be overstated, as they prove that women can excel in powerlifting just as much as men. As more women enter the sport, the raw bench press world record is expected to rise further, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in female strength sports.
The Importance of Women’s Bench Press Records
Women’s bench press records, both raw and equipped, hold great significance in the powerlifting community. These records serve as milestones for female athletes and inspire others to pursue strength sports. The history of women’s bench pressing, which has seen gradual but consistent improvements, highlights how women have developed strength comparable to men, challenging outdated stereotypes about female strength.
Records like the 317.5 kg lift by Ashleigh Hoeta serve not only as a personal achievement for the lifter but also as a source of motivation for the entire community. These milestones help push the sport forward, showing the importance of strength training for women at all levels. Female lifters, by breaking records and setting new standards, continue to redefine what’s possible in powerlifting.
Biggest Bench Press by Weight Class
In powerlifting, the biggest bench press records vary significantly depending on the lifter’s weight class. Weight classes allow for fair competition among athletes of different body sizes, ensuring that strength is the primary factor in determining a winner. The biggest bench press in each weight class is an essential benchmark that represents the peak of strength within that category.
How Weight Class Influences the Biggest Bench Press Records
The weight class in which an athlete competes greatly affects the amount of weight they can lift. Lighter athletes may struggle to lift as much as heavier athletes due to their overall muscle mass and body size. However, this doesn’t mean lighter lifters can’t set world records. In fact, many athletes in the lighter weight classes have achieved impressive records that show strength is not limited to size. For example, in the 75 kg (165 lb) weight class, there have been incredible lifts that rival those of heavier lifters.
On the other hand, athletes in the heavier weight classes, such as those competing at 125 kg (275 lb) or more, can typically lift much heavier weights due to their increased muscle mass and overall size. The biggest bench press records in these weight classes tend to be far higher than those in the lighter classes, which reflects the strength advantages that come with greater body weight.
However, it is important to note that the competition within each weight class is fierce, with lifters continuously striving to break their own records and push the limits of strength in their respective categories. As a result, records in all weight classes are regularly being challenged, contributing to the progression of the sport as a whole.
The Top Lifters in Each Weight Class
When examining the biggest bench press records by weight class, it is essential to recognize the top lifters who have achieved these feats. In the heavier classes, athletes like Jimmy Kolb have set the biggest bench press records, with Kolb’s 635 kg (1,401 lb) lift in the equipped category being a standout example. In the lighter classes, lifters such as Julius Maddox, who holds the raw bench press world record, continue to redefine what is possible within their categories.
While heavier lifters typically dominate the biggest bench press records, many athletes in the lighter categories have defied expectations and made history in their respective weight classes. The diversity of records across all weight classes shows that strength is not determined solely by body size. Lifters of all shapes and sizes can compete at the highest levels, and many have achieved remarkable feats in their weight classes, further advancing the sport.
The Importance of Weight Classes in Bench Press Records
Weight classes play a vital role in determining the fairness of competition in powerlifting. Without weight classes, larger athletes would have an unfair advantage in the biggest bench press records, as they would naturally be able to lift more. The introduction of weight classes ensures that athletes compete against others of similar size, which highlights the true skill and strength of the lifter.
The records set in each weight class are incredibly important, as they inspire other lifters to aim higher and push the boundaries of what is possible in their respective categories. With more lifters achieving incredible feats in the bench press, the sport continues to grow, and new records are consistently set. The biggest bench press by weight class provides benchmarks that help shape the future of powerlifting and demonstrate the diverse talents of lifters from all walks of life.
The biggest bench press, whether raw or equipped, is a key aspect of powerlifting that continues to push the limits of human strength. From women’s bench press records to the largest lifts in each weight class, the sport has evolved significantly, with new milestones being achieved regularly. These records are not just numbers; they represent years of training, dedication, and the pursuit of excellence. As the sport continues to develop, we can expect even bigger lifts and more athletes striving to set the next world record. The quest for the biggest bench press remains one of the most inspiring aspects of strength sports.
Biggest Bench Press: Strongman Bench Press Record
The bench press records set by strongmen differ in significant ways from traditional powerlifting records. Strongmen, known for their exceptional overall strength, do not always compete in the same way as powerlifters. While powerlifters focus solely on the squat, bench press, and deadlift, strongman competitions often include a broader range of events, such as tire flips, atlas stones, and log presses. Despite this, some strongmen have also made significant contributions to the biggest bench press records.
How Strongman Bench Press Records Differ from Traditional Powerlifting Records
One of the main differences between strongman bench press records and traditional powerlifting records is the type of training and competitions involved. Strongman athletes train with a focus on functional strength, which often involves moving heavy, awkward objects in addition to traditional lifts like the bench press. As a result, while strongman athletes tend to be incredibly strong overall, their bench press records may not always reach the same levels as those of powerlifters who specifically focus on maximizing their bench press.
The bench press in strongman competitions is often performed with different equipment and in different settings than in powerlifting meets. In powerlifting, strict rules govern the execution of the lift, including the use of a bench press shirt, which assists with lifting heavier weights. In contrast, strongmen may not always use the same equipment or may choose a more natural, raw lifting style. This can impact the records set in strongman events, making them distinct from those in traditional powerlifting.
Notable Strongman Competitors and Their Contributions to the Biggest Bench Press Records
Several notable strongman competitors have contributed to the biggest bench press records, demonstrating the immense strength and power required in both disciplines. For example, one of the most famous strongman competitors, Hafthor Bjornsson, is well known for his incredible feats of strength, including his world record deadlift of 501 kg (1,104 lbs). Although Bjornsson is best known for his deadlifts and other strongman events, he has also achieved impressive bench press lifts in training and competition.
Other strongman athletes like Eddie Hall, who set the world record for the heaviest deadlift, have also contributed to the world of bench pressing. While their primary focus is not always on the bench press, their overall strength and training enable them to lift substantial amounts of weight in the bench press as well. These strongmen continue to push the limits of human strength, contributing to the ongoing evolution of the biggest bench press records in the world.
While strongman athletes typically focus on a broad range of strength-based events, their ability to perform impressive bench presses showcases the versatility and depth of their training. These athletes are not just the strongest in one discipline—they are among the strongest in many, making their bench press achievements even more significant.
Biggest Bench Press in 2025
As we move into 2025, the landscape of the biggest bench press records continues to evolve, with athletes pushing the boundaries of what was previously thought possible. This year has already seen some impressive lifts, and as new competitors rise, the potential for even bigger bench press records grows.
Key Bench Press Records Set in 2025
In 2025, several athletes have already made significant attempts to break the biggest bench press records, both in raw and equipped categories. One notable event was the attempt by a well-known powerlifter to surpass the previous raw bench press record of 355 kg (782 lbs). Although this record has not been broken yet, the efforts have sparked interest in the potential of future lifts.
Another standout performance in 2025 came from a rising competitor in the equipped category. Using a specialized bench press shirt, the athlete set a new personal best and came very close to surpassing the biggest equipped bench press record of 635 kg (1,401 lbs). As new lifters continue to make advancements, it is expected that the biggest bench press records will continue to rise steadily over the next few years.
Key Players Shaping the Biggest Bench Press Records in 2025
Several key players in the powerlifting and strongman communities are shaping the future of the biggest bench press records in 2025. Competitors like Julius Maddox, who holds the current raw bench press world record, continue to be frontrunners in the race to achieve even more extraordinary lifts. As more lifters like Maddox develop their training regimens and techniques, the biggest bench press records are likely to continue breaking new ground.
In the equipped category, athletes like Jimmy Kolb, who holds the biggest bench press equipped world record, remain influential figures. Their continued dominance in the sport is driving the standard for what is considered the biggest bench press. These athletes’ contributions are integral to the progression of the sport, and their efforts are helping shape the future of strength sports as we enter 2025.
The Significance of 2025 in Bench Press History
2025 marks a significant year in the history of the biggest bench press records. With new lifters emerging and established competitors continuing to push their limits, the year is poised to become a milestone in the sport. As the records continue to evolve, so does the understanding of what is possible in strength training. The ongoing efforts to set the biggest bench press records are pushing athletes to their physical and mental limits, and this trend is expected to continue well into the future.
In 2025, the biggest bench press records are not just about lifting more weight—they are a testament to the dedication, innovation, and perseverance of athletes striving to redefine the boundaries of strength. These records continue to inspire lifters around the world and motivate the next generation of athletes to aim higher in their pursuit of the biggest bench press.
What Is the World’s Biggest Bench Press?
The world record bench press for a 14-year-old is a remarkable achievement that demonstrates the incredible potential of young lifters. As more teenagers get involved in powerlifting, the competition for youth records has become increasingly fierce. For young athletes, hitting significant numbers in the bench press is often a sign of immense dedication and physical prowess. However, the current record for a 14-year-old bench press remains a highly contested area, with lifters pushing the boundaries year after year.
Teenagers Breaking Bench Press Records
At the age of 14, lifting significant weights is an incredible feat. Teenagers are still growing, and their bodies are not fully developed, so achieving biggest bench press numbers is an indication of exceptional talent and commitment to training. The world record for a 14-year-old bench press often serves as a milestone for many young lifters who are looking to advance to the highest levels of the sport in the years to come.
The most impressive part of these records is not just the amount of weight lifted, but the consistency and discipline required to reach such achievements at such a young age. Teenagers are often still in the process of developing their technique, strength, and physical conditioning, but many are already lifting extraordinary amounts of weight in the bench press. This feat requires an understanding of training principles, proper nutrition, and recovery strategies, which are crucial for maximizing strength potential in this age group.
Factors Driving Teenage Bench Press Success
There are several factors that contribute to the impressive bench press records set by teenagers. One significant factor is genetics. Some teenagers are naturally predisposed to greater muscle mass and strength, which allows them to lift heavier weights even at a young age. However, genetics alone are not enough; a dedicated training routine, proper technique, and consistent effort also play key roles in developing the strength necessary to set records.
Teenagers often have a unique advantage in their ability to recover quickly and adapt to new training programs. Their bodies are still growing, which means they may experience faster gains in strength compared to older lifters. This advantage, coupled with the right training regimen, can lead to impressive bench press performances at a young age.
While the records for teenage lifters are impressive, it’s important to note that these feats require not only physical strength but mental resilience. The determination to push through challenges and stay focused on long-term goals sets young lifters apart from others.
Bench Press Record by Weight Class and Age
The bench press record varies significantly depending on weight class and age group, creating a unique landscape in the sport of powerlifting. Athletes in different weight classes are held to different standards, with heavier lifters generally being able to lift more weight than lighter competitors. Additionally, records are broken down into categories such as youth, junior, open, and masters, each with its own benchmarks.
Weight Class and Its Impact on Bench Press Records
Weight class plays a significant role in determining the biggest bench press records, as athletes in different classes have different body compositions and strength capabilities. Lighter lifters typically have less overall mass, which means they need to rely on more refined technique and muscle density to achieve high lifts. On the other hand, heavier lifters have the advantage of increased muscle mass and leverage, allowing them to lift more weight in the bench press.
As weight class increases, the records for bench press also rise, with the heaviest lifters pushing the boundaries of strength. In the open category, the biggest bench press records tend to be the most impressive, as these are set by athletes who are often in the peak of their physical condition. However, even in the lighter weight classes, lifters continue to set impressive records, proving that bench pressing power isn’t limited to just the heaviest competitors.
Age Categories and Their Influence on Bench Press Records
Age categories, such as youth, junior, open, and masters, also influence the biggest bench press records. Each category reflects a different stage in an athlete’s career, with the open category representing the highest level of competition and the masters category reflecting the strength potential of older athletes.
In the youth and junior categories, records tend to be lower due to the physical development stages of these lifters. However, the records set in these categories are still significant, as young athletes continue to push the boundaries of strength at earlier ages. The biggest bench press records for youth and juniors often serve as stepping stones for future success in the open category.
In the open category, which includes athletes of all ages above 18, the records for bench press reach the highest levels, with the strongest lifters competing for global recognition. Masters lifters, typically over 40, continue to show impressive bench press performances, demonstrating that age is not necessarily a limitation to achieving incredible strength.
The Evolution of Bench Press Records Across Age Groups
The progression of bench press records across age groups is a testament to the continuous growth of the sport. Young lifters set records that inspire older competitors to improve their technique and strength, while older athletes continue to defy expectations and show that strength can be maintained well into later years.
The impact of these records is profound, not only for the athletes themselves but for the sport as a whole. Each new record, whether set by a young lifter in the youth category or a seasoned athlete in the open or masters categories, adds to the legacy of the biggest bench press achievements. This progression fuels further interest in the sport, encouraging new lifters to enter the competitive powerlifting scene and contribute to the ever-growing list of bench press records.
FAQs about Biggest Bench Press
The biggest bench press ever recorded is an astounding 1,102 pounds (500 kg), achieved by the legendary powerlifter Paul W. Anderson. This monumental lift was performed in 1957, and it remains one of the most impressive feats in the history of strength sports. Anderson’s bench press record set the standard for future lifters, inspiring many to push the limits of their physical strength. While modern technology, such as bench shirts, has enabled certain lifters to surpass raw records, Anderson’s lift is still considered the biggest bench press in raw competition, without the aid of supportive equipment.
In the modern era, equipped bench presses, which use shirts for added assistance, have led to some even more significant lifts. The biggest bench press in the equipped category is 1,401 pounds (635 kg), achieved by Jimmy Kolb in 2023. While the raw record set by Anderson is still legendary, the advancements in lifting gear have allowed lifters to hit extreme numbers in equipped events.
Benching 1,000 pounds is considered an incredibly rare feat in the powerlifting community, but it is not impossible. Only a select group of lifters have reached or surpassed this milestone, typically in equipped bench pressing. Lifting 1,000 pounds requires extreme levels of strength, technique, and body mass. Most people will never come close to this level of performance, but with years of dedicated training, it is achievable for the most elite lifters.
Achieving a 1,000-pound bench press involves a combination of factors such as body size, muscle mass, training methods, and the use of specialized equipment, including a bench shirt. Athletes like Jimmy Kolb, who has set equipped bench press records close to 1,400 pounds, have demonstrated what’s possible with proper technique and training. However, even with the right equipment, only the strongest lifters in the world can approach the 1,000-pound mark.
A 500-pound bench press is an extraordinary achievement, but it’s becoming less rare in the competitive powerlifting community, especially among the elite. For raw lifters, bench pressing 500 pounds is a sign of exceptional strength and dedication. However, it requires years of specialized training, proper nutrition, and the right mindset.
In the equipped bench press category, hitting the 500-pound mark is not as rare, as supportive equipment can enhance the lifter’s ability to handle heavier weights. Many competitive powerlifters, especially in the heavier weight classes, can lift well over 500 pounds with the aid of bench shirts and other equipment. Still, raw bench pressing 500 pounds is a rare achievement, usually limited to only the top lifters in the sport.
In general, the 500-pound bench press is considered an elite milestone, and achieving it requires dedication to both strength training and proper recovery. This feat is becoming more common, but it still remains out of reach for most lifters, particularly at the raw level.
The lifter who benched 1,300 pounds was the powerlifting star Jimmy Kolb. In 2023, Kolb set the world record for the biggest equipped bench press with a lift of 1,301 pounds (590 kg). This was a significant achievement in the world of strength sports and solidified Kolb’s place as one of the greatest equipped bench pressers in history.
Kolb’s record-breaking lift took place during the 2023 IPA Tri-Star Bash. Known for his dedication to technique and his understanding of bench press mechanics, Kolb’s lift demonstrates the level of strength and discipline required to achieve such extraordinary numbers. While his lift was assisted by a bench shirt, it still required immense power and precision to achieve.
Before Kolb, the record was held by lifters like Ryan Kennelly, who also made significant contributions to the development of the equipped bench press. However, Kolb’s 1,301-pound lift set a new standard in the sport, pushing the boundaries of what is possible for lifters using equipment.
