Barbell Overhead Press
Shouders • Gym • Intermediate
- Muscle Group: Shoulders
- Training Type: Compund
- Equipment: Barbell
- Difficulty: Intermediate
Exercise Overview
The barbell overhead press is a compound shoulder exercise that primarily targets the front and lateral deltoids while also engaging the triceps and upper chest. This movement builds upper-body pressing strength, shoulder stability, and overall muscle mass, making it a foundational lift in shoulder training.
How To Do It
1. Setup
Stand with feet shoulder-width apart and place a barbell at upper-chest height. Grip the bar slightly wider than shoulder width with palms facing forward.
2. Starting Position
Brace your core, keep your chest up, and position the bar just below chin level. Elbows should be slightly in front of the bar.
3. Execution
Press the barbell straight overhead until your arms are fully extended without locking the elbows. Keep the bar path close to your face.
4. Return
Lower the barbell back to the starting position under control, maintaining a stable core and upright posture.