Barbell Shoulder Press – Alternating

Overview

The Barbell Shoulder Press - Alternating is a variation of the barbell shoulder press. Also known as the overhead press or military press, it is a classic compound exercise that primarily targets the muscles of the shoulders (deltoids) and triceps. It is an effective upper body strength training exercise that helps build shoulder strength, stability, and muscle mass.

Description

Let's get started by grabbing the barbell with an overhand grip at shoulder height with a bend in your elbows.

This is the starting position.

From here, we are going to press the bar up with just one hand and overhead by extending at the elbow. Once done, return the arm back down safely to your shoulders. Then repeat with the other arm. Once you’ve done both arms this is one repetition, now repeat for the desired amount.

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

Benefits

• Shoulder Strength: Barbell shoulder press targets and strengthens the shoulder muscles, promoting upper body strength.
• Improved Upper Body Definition: Consistent shoulder pressing can lead to increased muscle definition in the shoulders, enhancing overall upper body aesthetics.
• Functional Upper Body Strength: This exercise improves shoulder stability and overhead strength, benefiting daily activities that involve lifting or reaching overhead.

Area focus

• Shoulders
• Arms
• Push

Primary muscles

• Triceps
• Deltoids

Secondary muscles

Exercise type