Mark OttobreFounder, Enterprise Fitness · Results Driven Coaching

How To Breathe When Bench Pressing

20 Oct 2026 · 1 min

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0:45

In this instructional segment, strength coach Mark Ottobre demonstrates how to use breath‑holding and intra‑thoracic pressure to create a stable bench‑press platform. He has the trainee place a hand on his chest and push against it, using that resistance as a cue to hold a single breath throughout the lift. Ottobre explains that the ability to hold the breath depends on the weight and rep scheme—heavier loads make breath‑holding harder, but maximal lifts require a full breath‑hold. When a breath is needed, he instructs the lifter to breathe into his hand, providing a concrete cue. The demonstration emphasizes the feeling of steadiness and increased strength when the technique is applied correctly.

Put your hand on my chest. If I do that, push against me. Like it's hard to hold, right?
Yeah, yeah.
If I do this, that was all one breath. No breathing. Let's see how stable I am. That's what you're gonna do. Depending on what rep work and obviously the weight will have a big factor how long you can hold your breath for. As in the heavier you go, the harder it is to hold your breath. But when you're doing max work, you need to hold your breath. If I have to breathe, I'll breathe here. Breathe into my hand. 2, 1. So much better. How'd that feel? Steady. Stronger.
More control.