Flex Magazine: Recently, a North Carolina couple decided to a self-inquired experiment to determine just exactly how much the average American can bench press. The results were conducted randomly, by asking gymgoers in approximately 18 regional gyms to perform a bench press 225 pounds for one repetition. To be considered for correctly benching, the subject must touch the bar to the chest and re-rack the weight without any spotter or assistance. Those who could not perform once successful repetition were added to the error pool. After the four month experiment and 2,453 test subjects later, the results were calculated. Out of the 2,453 a massive 2,171 could not correctly bench 225 pounds or used a spotter. Leaving 282 subjects who could correctly bench the 225 pounds. Of course, there are always errors with experiments but it just goes to show it takes time to earn that club membership into 225.