Back to exercises
StrengthintermediateDumbbell

Arnold Dumbbell Press

Primary
Shoulders
Secondary
Triceps
Equipment
Dumbbell
Level
intermediate

Arnold Dumbbell Press demonstration

Arnold Dumbbell Press, starting position
Arnold Dumbbell Press, starting position
Arnold Dumbbell Press, finishing position
Arnold Dumbbell Press, finishing position

How to Perform

  1. 1Sit on an exercise bench with back support and hold two dumbbells in front of you at about upper chest level with your palms facing your body and your elbows bent. Tip: Your arms should be next to your torso. The starting position should look like the contracted portion of a dumbbell curl.
  2. 2Now to perform the movement, raise the dumbbells as you rotate the palms of your hands until they are facing forward.
  3. 3Continue lifting the dumbbells until your arms are extended above you in straight arm position. Breathe out as you perform this portion of the movement.
  4. 4After a second pause at the top, begin to lower the dumbbells to the original position by rotating the palms of your hands towards you. Tip: The left arm will be rotated in a counter clockwise manner while the right one will be rotated clockwise. Breathe in as you perform this portion of the movement.
  5. 5Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.

Video Tutorial

Tips & Common Mistakes

  • •Focus on controlled movements rather than speed or momentum
  • •Maintain proper breathing - exhale during the exertion phase
  • •Start with lighter weight to master the form before progressing
  • •As a compound movement, this exercise works multiple muscle groups efficiently

Muscles Worked

Front
Back
ShouldersTriceps

Exercise Details

Category
Strength
Force
push
Mechanic
compound
Level
intermediate

Want workout programs?

Get structured workout plans using this exercise and more.

Browse Programs

Frequently Asked Questions

What muscles does Arnold Dumbbell Press work?

Arnold Dumbbell Press primarily targets the Shoulders. It also works the Triceps as secondary muscles.

What equipment do I need for Arnold Dumbbell Press?

Arnold Dumbbell Press requires Dumbbell.

Is Arnold Dumbbell Press suitable for beginners?

Arnold Dumbbell Press is classified as intermediate level. Beginners should master foundational movements first.

Alternatives to Arnold Dumbbell Press

Substitute any of these when the equipment is taken or unavailable. They train the same primary muscles.