Are You Bench Pressing Well Above Average for Your Age and Weight?
At 17 years old, standing 6'2" and weighing 170 pounds (77 kg), with a bench press of 185 pounds (84 kg), congratulations on achieving a truly impressive feat!
Impressive but Keep Working for Continuous Improvement
To put your achievement into perspective, reaching a bench press of 185 lbs is well above average and respectably strong. However, as impressive as this is, there is still room for improvement.
Set your sights on hitting 1.5x bodyweight in terms of your bench press, aiming for around 260 lbs or 118 kg. By sustaining this goal, you can look forward to pushing the envelope even further for the peak of your teenage years.
For aspirational lifters, the 2x bodyweight goal at 350 lbs or 159 kg might seem like a distant dream, but it is a realistic milestone if you allocate proper time and dedication towards your routine. Achieving this would place you in the 95th percentile of strength, a true testament to your dedication and commitment to fitness.
Ushering in a Healthier Future
However, your performance now is not only a badge of honor but also a health indicator. Regular weightlifting and bodybuilding, as you're already demonstrating, has numerous health benefits. According to a recent study, men who weight train have higher natural testosterone levels and are 80% less likely to experience heart disease. These benefits are particularly significant as you progress into adulthood, but the positive impact is evident from your formative years.
Ensure you maintain proper form, especially when lifting heavier weights, to avoid potential injuries. Even if your ultimate goal is bodybuilding, it’s crucial to find a balance—focus on form, technique, and gradual progression to maintain your health and lift safely.
Never Stop Pushing Your Limits
Your current achievement is commendable, but with continued dedication, there are no limits to how much you can grow and develop. Whether you aspire to be a competitive lifter or simply maintain a healthy lifestyle, the sky is the limit. So, keep pushing, eat right, stay hydrated, and let your journey in strength and health unfold.
Ultimately, remember that lifting to your own standards of success is far more important than measuring against others. The journey is about being your very best.
Stay motivated, stay focused, and keep lifting!