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Barbell Standing Shoulder Press

Barbell Standing Shoulder Press illustration

Primary muscles: Shoulders, Triceps

Secondary muscles: Upper Chest

Free Weights
Barbell

How to do the Barbell Standing Shoulder Press

  1. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, holding a barbell with an overhand grip (palms facing forward), hands placed slightly wider than shoulder-width apart. The barbell should be at chest height.
  2. Press the barbell overhead by extending your arms fully, keeping your elbows outwards.
  3. Hold the barbell overhead for a moment, ensuring your arms are fully extended and your shoulders are engaged.
  4. Slowly lower the barbell back to the starting position at chest height. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

Form tips

  • Avoid arching your back by maintaining a neutral spine throughout the movement.
  • Breathe steadily, exhaling as you press the barbell overhead and inhaling as you lower it back down.
  • Keep your elbows slightly in front of your body at the starting position to avoid shoulder strain.

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