MMA analyst Luke Thomas took aim at a social media post showing former UFC star Brendan Schaub performing bench press exercises, critiquing the form displayed in the footage.
During a segment of his show, Thomas broke down the technical flaws in Schaub’s lifting technique, particularly noting issues with proper bench positioning and execution.
“That’s the worst bench press I’ve ever seen,” Thomas stated. “I say this out of love – you need a trainer, guy.”
While acknowledging Schaub’s raw strength in lifting substantial weight, Thomas explained that proper form requires maintaining contact between the back and the bench throughout the movement. He noted that while lifters are permitted to lift their rear end when initially setting up, it must remain in contact with the bench during the actual press.
“You are allowed to lift your rear end off the bench to get set and to lift it out of the rack, but you can’t descend with the bar until your rear end is touching,” Thomas explained, adding that excessive leg drive defeats the purpose of the exercise.
The footage shows Schaub performing two repetitions with significant weight plates loaded on both sides of the barbell. Thomas compared the uncontrolled movement to “getting electrocuted,” referencing how Schaub’s form appeared unstable during the lifts.
Thomas’ co-host BC joined in the critique, though both acknowledged that the weight being lifted exceeded their own capabilities. The segment concluded with Thomas emphasizing that while arching the back can be acceptable to shorten range of motion when done properly, the overall form displayed needed significant improvement.
The social media post and subsequent analysis sparked widespread discussion online, with many viewers agreeing with Thomas’ technical assessment of proper bench press execution.
