Overhead Barbell Press

Muscle Groups: Shoulders

Overhead Barbell Press focuses on Shoulders, with Chest, Triceps, Traps working as supporting muscles.

How to Perform

Follow these step-by-step instructions to perform Overhead Barbell Press with proper form and technique.

  1. 1

    Grab a barbell using an overhand grip with your hands slightly wider than shoulder-width apart. Stand up tall with your feet about hip-width apart and the bar below your chin, but above your chest with your palms facing the ceiling.

  2. 2

    Press the bar overhead until your elbows are completely locked out before slowly returning to the starting position.

Tips for Success

These tips will help you perform Overhead Barbell Press safely and effectively while maintaining proper form.

  • Avoid hyperextending at your lower back. Keep your core tight throughout the entire exercise to prevent injury.

  • Be sure to press straight above your head and not out in front of your body.

Secondary Muscles

While Overhead Barbell Press primarily targets Shoulders , this exercise also activates several secondary muscle groups during the movement. These supporting muscles include Chest, Triceps, Traps . Engaging these secondary muscles helps stabilize your body throughout the exercise, improves overall coordination, and contributes to balanced muscle development.

Related Exercises

If you enjoyed Overhead Barbell Press, you might also want to try these related exercises that target similar muscle groups.

These exercises work the same primary muscles as Overhead Barbell Press, making them excellent alternatives for variety in your training program or complementary movements to include in the same workout session. Mixing different exercises that target similar muscle groups helps prevent plateaus, reduces overuse injuries, and keeps your workouts engaging and effective.

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