Which of the following exercises is recommended for improving upper body strength?

The bench press is recommended for improving upper body strength because it primarily targets the pectoral muscles, triceps, and deltoids. This exercise involves pressing a barbell or dumbbells away from the chest while lying on a bench, engaging multiple muscle groups in the upper body. By using this compound movement, individuals can increase their overall upper body strength, enhancing performance in a variety of other physical activities and improving muscle endurance.

The other exercises listed focus on different areas. Leg curls primarily target the hamstrings, making it a lower body exercise. Lunges also focus on the lower body, working the quadriceps, hamstrings, and gluteal muscles. Calf raises target the calves specifically. While all these exercises are beneficial for developing strength in their respective areas, none of them effectively target the upper body in the same way the bench press does.