StrengthIntermediatebarbell or dumbbells
Overhead Press
A standing barbell or dumbbell press from shoulders to overhead. Builds shoulder and tricep strength while demanding core stability throughout the lift.
How to do it
- 1Bar starts at shoulder height, grip just outside shoulder-width
- 2Brace core, squeeze glutes to stabilize
- 3Press bar straight up, moving head slightly back to clear the bar path
- 4Lock out overhead with biceps near ears, then lower with control
Common mistakes
- Excessive back arching to cheat the weight up
- Pressing the bar forward instead of straight up
- Not fully locking out at the top
Muscles worked
shoulderstricepscoreupper backchest
Variations
Easier
Seated dumbbell shoulder press
Harder
Push press or strict press with pause
Used in
Related exercises
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