How to Do Barbell Shoulder Press: Step by Step
- Start with bar at collarbone height
- Brace core and squeeze glutes
- Press bar straight up, moving head slightly back to clear the bar path
- Lock out overhead with bar over mid-foot
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Excessive lower back arch — brace core harder
- Pressing the bar too far forward instead of straight up
- Using leg drive on strict press
Barbell Shoulder Press Tips
- Keep your ribcage down and core tight to avoid arching your lower back
- Press in a slight arc — the bar should end directly over your head, not in front
- For dumbbells, start with a neutral grip and rotate palms forward as you press
Muscles Worked
shoulderstriceps
Equipment
barbell
Tracking
Count reps