Exercise guide
Seated Barbell Shoulder Press.
- Equipment
- Barbell
- Movement
- Compound
- Level
- Beginner
Muscles at work
Front
Back
PrimaryShoulders
SecondaryTraps, Triceps
Make every rep count.
- 01
Set the bar in the rack just below shoulder height, load your weight, and place an adjustable bench underneath at a fully upright (90°) angle.
- 02
Sit tall with your feet planted. Grab the bar with an overhand (pronated) grip, hands slightly wider than shoulders.
- 03
Unrack and bring the bar to the start position over your upper chest. Keep your core braced and ribs down.
- 04
Inhale, tighten your midsection, and tuck your chin slightly as you lower the bar under control to the top of your chest/upper collarbone area (don’t bounce).
- 05
Exhale and press straight up until your elbows are locked out overhead, keeping the bar path vertical and shoulders stable.
- 06
Repeat for your reps, maintaining a tall posture and controlled tempo throughout.





