What is the standard bench press start signal?

What is the standard bench press start signal?

• A. Downward motion of hand with 'Start'
• B. Upward motion with 'Press'
• C. Backward movement with 'Rack'
• D. A nod of the head

Answer: (A)

The lift May begin only after a precise start signal from the referees: a downward motion of the hand accompanied by the word “Start.” This cue confirms that the bar is still, the lifter’s position is stable, and all requirements—feet planted, shoulders retracted, bar on the chest—are satisfied. Once that signal is given, the lifter may press the bar upward to full lockout. The other cues aren’t used to initiate the lift: nodding the head isn’t an official start signal, the rack cue is for returning the bar, and an upward motion with a different command does not indicate the start in this discipline.

The lift May begin only after a precise start signal from the referees: a downward motion of the hand accompanied by the word “Start.” This cue confirms that the bar is still, the lifter’s position is stable, and all requirements—feet planted, shoulders retracted, bar on the chest—are satisfied. Once that signal is given, the lifter may press the bar upward to full lockout. The other cues aren’t used to initiate the lift: nodding the head isn’t an official start signal, the rack cue is for returning the bar, and an upward motion with a different command does not indicate the start in this discipline.