How Much Should a 15-Year-Old Be Able to Bench Press?

According to Men’s Health, the average male bench presses up to one and a half times his own body weight. A 15-year-old, who weighs 130 pounds, could work his way up to bench pressing 195 pounds. This calculation is based on his weight of 130 pounds multiplied by 1.5.

Men’s Weight suggests that an ordinary bodybuilder can potentially bench press his own weight. The weightlifter can start by bench pressing 40 percent of his weight, and gradually increase it to 150 percent of his weight. When bench pressing, it is important to use a spotter. A spotter reduces the risk of injury and allows the lifter to feel more comfortable with larger amounts of weights. Weight should never supersede technique. If the weight is too much to properly lift, then it needs to be reduced in order to complete a rep properly.