Barbell Shoulder Press

Pro Tip

If you feel discomfort in your lower back during this movement, you may be leaning too far backward. Try to maintain an upright torso throughout the entire movement. If you struggle with this, squeezing your glutes and abs can help.

How To

Standing upright, position yourself under the barbell so that you may grab it slightly wider than shoulder-width apart with your palms facing away from you.
Remove the barbell from the rack and take a step backward.
Exhale and raise your arms up overhead, pushing up in a straight line, without hitting your chin.
Continue raising your arms up overhead until they are fully extended with the barbell directly overhead.
Inhale and lower the barbell, returning to the starting position.
After all reps are completed, return the barbell to the rack.

Primary Muscle Groups

Front Shoulder

Front portion of your shoulder.

Secondary Muscle Groups

Lower Back

Center region of your back, spanning from the pelvis to just below the neck. However, parts of it are hidden beneath other muscles. The lower portion is the most visible.

Lower Tricep

Lower tricep, close to your elbow.

Outer Tricep

Outer region of your tricep.

Side Shoulder

Outer portion of your shoulder.

Upper Back

A significant portion of the upper region of your back. It is widest in the middle, forming a diamond shape that connects the middle of your back to both of your shoulder blades and the upper portion of your neck. It is comprised of three regions. Each region has a different function and is trained in different ways.