If an athlete is trying to increase their one rep max in a relatively short period of time (e.g. 4 to 8 weeks), then a bench press peaking program is most effective for increasing the 1RM. If the athlete is trying to increase their 1RM gradually over time, then the answer depends more heavily upon the development stage of the athlete. Novice lifters likely do not need to be concerned strictly with the bench press and should progress all lifts on any well designed beginner powerlifting program. An early intermediate should still see regular progress on a linear progression program like Madcow 5x5 or Texas Method. Later stage intermediates will likely need to introduce more variation in rep ranges and intensity, such as with Greg Nuckols Medium Load Intermediate 3x Weekly Bench Press Program.