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    1. Home
    2. Exercises
    3. Barbell Standing Military Press

    Barbell Standing Military Press Exercise Guide

    Barbell Standing Military Press demonstration

    Exercise Profile

    Target
    Deltoid Anterior
    Equipment
    Barbell
    Body Part
    Shoulders
    Primary Muscle
    Deltoid Anterior
    Secondary Muscles
    Pectoralis Major Clavicular Head, Serratus Anterior, Deltoid Lateral, Triceps Brachii
    Intensity
    high
    Category
    strength
    Skill Level
    intermediate
    Estimated Calories
    7.5
    Alternate Names
    Standing Barbell Shoulder Press, Military Press

    How to: Barbell Standing Military Press

    1. Stand with feet shoulder-width apart and grip the barbell with palms facing forward.
    2. Lift the barbell from shoulder height to overhead, fully extending your arms.
    3. Engage your core and keep your back straight throughout the lift.
    4. Lower the barbell back to shoulder height in a controlled manner.
    5. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

    Common Mistakes

    • Arching the back excessively during the lift.
    • Not engaging the core to support the back.
    • Letting the elbows flare out too far.

    Modifications

    • Perform the press seated to reduce strain on the lower back.
    • Use a lighter weight or resistance band for a less intense workout.

    Tips

    • Maintain a neutral spine throughout the movement.
    • Ensure your feet are shoulder-width apart for stability.
    • Start with a lighter weight to master the form before increasing.

    Barbell Standing Military Press Alternatives

    Barbell Standing Military Press (without rack)

    Barbell Standing Military Press (without rack)

    Body Part: Shoulders

    Smith Standing Shoulder Press

    Smith Standing Shoulder Press

    Body Part: Shoulders

    Standing Plate Presses

    Standing Plate Presses

    Body Part: Shoulders

    Tags

    shoulders
    strength
    military press
    weightlifting
    upper body
    powerlifting

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