Barbell Overhead Press
A classic compound shoulder exercise (the military press) where you press a barbell overhead from a standing position.
Intermediate · Recommended Sets: 3-4 sets x 6-10 reps · Front Delts, Side Delts, Triceps
Barbell Overhead Press — Points to Check Today
- Don't overarch your lower back — Brace your core and glutes so your ribcage doesn't flare up. (Arching the lower back heavily to press the weight up)
- Bar travels in front of your face — Press it straight up in front, not behind your head. (Pressing the bar behind the head and straining the shoulders)
- Pass your head through slightly at the top — Get the bar to a straight line directly over your head. (The bar staying in front of the body so the shoulders shift forward)
Barbell Overhead Press — How to Do It / If You're New
- Rest the bar on your collarbone and front delts, gripping it slightly wider than shoulder-width.
- Stand with feet shoulder-width apart and brace your core and glutes to make your torso solid.
- Press the bar straight up overhead so it travels just in front of your face.
- Once the bar clears the top of your head, push your head slightly forward and lock your arms out. Lower slowly to your collarbone and repeat.