Higher body fat = Higher bench press?

[Mr. Small]

I've heard a few times that a higher body fat means you can press more weight on the bench compared to skinnier people.

Is this a myth, as in nonsense?

[DinAZ]

I think there is some truth to it but I think it can be more of a factor at very low body fat % or if you are massive. Power lifters have more belly and overall fat than body builders but unless you are huge doing a 500+ lb bench I think you could be close to peak strength at 10% body fat. A competing body builder probably loses a bit of strength though getting down to ~5% fat. I think most recreational lifters would prefer the aesthetics of lower BF% would outweigh any benefit of a small strength gain.

Maybe someone that has competed before can tell you more detail.

[Mr. Small]

I have noticed in the past that the higher my body fat, the easier I found it to do heavier squats.

[F4iGuy]

I notice my strength dropping a little when I'm under 12%. I think it's mental though. When I'm eating more calories and carbs I feel more confident under a heavy bar.