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

    Barbell Standing Shoulders Press Exercise Guide

    Barbell Standing Shoulders Press demonstration

    Exercise Profile

    Target
    Deltoid Anterior
    Equipment
    Barbell
    Body Part
    Shoulders
    Primary Muscle
    Deltoid Anterior
    Secondary Muscles
    Serratus Anterior, Triceps Brachii, Deltoid Lateral
    Intensity
    medium
    Category
    strength
    Skill Level
    intermediate
    Estimated Calories
    5
    Alternate Names
    Standing Military Press, Overhead Barbell Press

    How to: Barbell Standing Shoulders Press

    1. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and grip the barbell slightly wider than shoulder-width.
    2. Lift the barbell to shoulder height, elbows below the wrists.
    3. Adjust your stance to a stable position; engage your core.
    4. Press the barbell overhead until your arms are fully extended.
    5. Lower the barbell back to shoulder height in a controlled manner.
    6. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

    Common Mistakes

    • Using too much weight and compromising form.
    • Not fully extending arms overhead.
    • Flaring elbows out too wide, which can lead to injury.

    Modifications

    • Use dumbbells instead of a barbell for greater range of motion.
    • Perform the exercise seated to reduce strain on the back.

    Tips

    • Keep your core engaged to maintain stability.
    • Do not arch your back; keep your spine neutral.
    • Lower the barbell to ear level before pressing back up.

    Barbell Standing Shoulders Press Alternatives

    Lever Military Press (plate loaded)

    Lever Military Press (plate loaded)

    Body Part: Shoulders

    Dumbbell Alternate Shoulder Press

    Dumbbell Alternate Shoulder Press

    Body Part: Shoulders

    Kettlebell Arnold Press

    Kettlebell Arnold Press

    Body Part: Shoulders

    Tags

    shoulders
    strength
    deltoids
    muscle building
    barbell
    upper body

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