hmmm could this be the very reason why I'm struggling at 190? That is to say, is it possible that I'm taking too long to rest between sets and as a result not progressing and staying in the same rep range? I suppose I'll continue to bench at 190 since I get 8 on the first set and just rest 1:30-2 minutes as opposed to 3 minutes. Or should I not rest any longer than 1:30?
It might not be that simple.
What part of the rep is fatiguing? The initial burst off the chest, 1/3-2/3, 2/3 to lockout, etc.
Second, define your goals. Size and strength can be achieved best by separating the two into 2 distinct phases. A phase for hypertrophy (size goals) and a phase for strength. Yes, you will gain strength during hypertrophy, and vice versa, but you can focus your attention fully on one goal at a time, and at the end of the cycle, will have made more progress then spending an equal amount of time trying to achieve both at once.
So, I suggest again that you periodize. You may be near the current training roof for the 8 rep range. Thus, you have maximized the adaptations at that range. It is time to focus on something different, perhaps a greater nerual recruitment of muscle fibers and the CP energy system (4-6 reps) or training for greater muscular endurance, GH release, and sarcoplasmic hypertrophy (10-15 reps).
Br