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MOVEMENT GUIDE / BARBELL

Barbell overhead press

Brace, press bar vertically past face with a stable trunk, then lower to upper chest.

Barbell overhead press — illustrative movement reference

Target muscles

Anterior and middle deltoids, triceps and upper back stabilizers

Setup

Keep ribs stacked over pelvis and start with a manageable load.

Perform the move

Brace, press bar vertically past face with a stable trunk, then lower to upper chest. Return slowly to the starting position. Keep breathing and stop if the movement causes pain.

Why use it?

Strengthen the shoulder through a controlled range.

Common mistake

Leaning back and turning the lift into an incline press.

Alternative

Dumbbell overhead press

TECHNIQUE REFERENCEOpen the complete movement guide

Use the setup, movement, common mistake and easier option above. A selected external demonstration for this exact variation has not been added yet.

Exercise within a comfortable range. Stop if a movement causes pain.

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