Back to exercises
StrengthbeginnerCable

Cable Shoulder Press

Primary
Shoulders
Secondary
Triceps
Equipment
Cable
Level
beginner

Cable Shoulder Press demonstration

Cable Shoulder Press, starting position
Cable Shoulder Press, starting position
Cable Shoulder Press, finishing position
Cable Shoulder Press, finishing position

How to Perform

  1. 1Move the cables to the bottom of the towers and select an appropriate weight.
  2. 2Stand directly in between the uprights. Grasp the cables and hold them at shoulder height, palms facing forward. This will be your starting position.
  3. 3Keeping your head and chest up, extend through the elbow to press the handles directly over head.
  4. 4After pausing at the top, return to the starting position and repeat.

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
  • •This is a great exercise for beginners - focus on form over reps
  • •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
beginner

Want workout programs?

Get structured workout plans using this exercise and more.

Browse Programs

Frequently Asked Questions

What muscles does Cable Shoulder Press work?

Cable Shoulder Press primarily targets the Shoulders. It also works the Triceps as secondary muscles.

What equipment do I need for Cable Shoulder Press?

Cable Shoulder Press requires Cable.

Is Cable Shoulder Press suitable for beginners?

Yes, Cable Shoulder Press is suitable for beginners. It's classified as a beginner-level exercise.

Alternatives to Cable Shoulder Press

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