Resolution criteria

This market resolves YES if Hank successfully completes a single repetition of a barbell bench press with 225 pounds (two 45-pound plates plus the 45-pound Olympic bar) at any point during 2026. The lift must follow standard powerlifting form: controlled descent to the chest, pause, and full lockout of the arms. Video evidence or witness verification from a gym setting will serve as confirmation. This market resolves NO if Hank does not achieve this milestone by December 31, 2026.

Background

Only 17% of men have ever benched 225 pounds, making it a significant strength milestone. A 225 lb bench press is just over an intermediate lift, and the average powerlifter can bench 225 pounds within his first year of training. The lift requires consistent training focused on upper body strength development.

Considerations

The difficulty of achieving a 225-pound bench press varies significantly based on individual factors including training experience, body weight, genetics, and current strength level. Only 2% of new lifters can do it, and even among regulars, barely 1 in 5 ever get there. Someone with no prior training experience would face a substantially different challenge than someone already lifting regularly.