Which grip is permitted on the bench press?

The permitted grip on the bench press requires that the whole forefinger must cover or be inside of the rings on the barbell. This rule is in place to ensure a standardized grip for all lifters, helping to maintain consistency in the competition and ensuring fairness among athletes. By requiring the forefinger to be properly placed, it allows for a secure hold of the bar and proper execution of the lift.

This stipulation is especially important as it prevents lifters from gaining an advantage through an unusually wide grip that might alter the mechanics of the lift inappropriately. This policy enhances safety by ensuring that the lifter has adequate control of the weight. Each lifting federation may have specific grip regulations to uphold integrity in competitions, making the proper placement crucial.

The other options suggest grips that either do not align with common regulations seen in powerlifting competitions or are outright prohibited based on safety and efficacy considerations for the lift.