the back during bench press

[RL19]

should my back be perfectly flat on the bench (entire length of back touching bench), or should it be arched slightly so that the middle to lower part of my back is slightly raised off the surface of the bench, with my upper back pressed hard against the bench?

[supergarr]

i keep a slight arch. and plant my feet out on the sides as much as i can.

[deadlift425]

Keep your feet planted to the ground, and your back as flat as it will go. Most ppl have a natural arch in their back, so it's nothing unusual. Just make sure your not arching it when your pressing the bar up.

[Jotun]

*sigh*

Don't keep your back flat on the bench. Not only is it an unnatural position for the spine to be in, it is also asking for a rotator cuff injury. The only parts of you that should touch the bench are your ass and your upper back when your shoulder blades are pulled together.

[deadlift425]

oops, knew i forgot something. My lower back never completely touches the bench, what i meant is keep your upper back and butt flat on the bench(in other words, don't cheat to move the bar up)