Dumbbell Neutral Press | Adapt to Perform
Exercises Libary

Dumbbell Neutral Press

Overview

The dumbbell neutral press, also known as the neutral grip dumbbell press or hammer grip dumbbell press, is a variation of the traditional dumbbell shoulder press. In this exercise, the palms are facing each other, creating a neutral grip, rather than the palms facing forward as in the standard shoulder press. The neutral grip changes the angle of the wrists and engages the muscles slightly differently, providing unique benefits.

Description

Let's get started by grabbing both your dumbbells and bringing them up to shoulder height with the arms bent and in front of you with your palms facing towards each other.

This is the starting position.

From here extend your arms overhead until they are almost locked out, or as high as you can. Keep your palms facing towards each other throughout the movement.

Once done, return the dumbbells back down safely to shoulder height. This is one repetition, now repeat this for the desired amount.

If you find yourself tipping backwards as you raise your arms up, put the back of your chair against a wall to help prevent this.

If you have limited gripping ability try using the Active Hands Gripping Aids to make this exercise as safe as possible.

Benefits

  • Targeted Muscle Emphasis: Places more focus on the triceps and front/middle deltoids, helping to develop strength and size in these areas.
  • Wrist-Friendly Option: The neutral grip can be more comfortable for individuals with wrist sensitivity or discomfort during a palms-forward grip.
  • Enhanced Shoulder Stability: Engages stabilizing muscles differently, contributing to improved shoulder stability and support during pressing movements.

Area focus

  • Shoulders
  • Arms
  • Push

Primary muscles

  • Triceps
  • Deltoids

Secondary muscles

Exercise type

Strength