Lie face up on bench. Place feet flat on floor to maintain lower back in a flat or neutral position (slight arch). Grip bar with hands slightly wider than shoulder width. Keep arms vertical and bar directly over chest with wrists straight. Keep shoulder blades squeezed together (retracted) and maintain position throughout entire exercise.
Throughout motion, shoulders form 90 degree angle to body. In a controlled motion, start lowering bar until upper arms are approximately parallel to floor. Hands must remain over elbows. While maintaining the controlled motion, push bar up to starting position without locking out elbows. Do not allow muscles to relax before next repetition.