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StrengthintermediateBarbell

Seated Barbell Military Press

Primary
Shoulders
Secondary
Triceps
Equipment
Barbell
Level
intermediate

Seated Barbell Military Press demonstration

Seated Barbell Military Press, starting position
Seated Barbell Military Press, starting position
Seated Barbell Military Press, finishing position
Seated Barbell Military Press, finishing position

How to Perform

  1. 1Sit on a Military Press Bench with a bar behind your head and either have a spotter give you the bar (better on the rotator cuff this way) or pick it up yourself carefully with a pronated grip (palms facing forward). Tip: Your grip should be wider than shoulder width and it should create a 90-degree angle between the forearm and the upper arm as the barbell goes down.
  2. 2Once you pick up the barbell with the correct grip length, lift the bar up over your head by locking your arms. Hold at about shoulder level and slightly in front of your head. This is your starting position.
  3. 3Lower the bar down to the collarbone slowly as you inhale.
  4. 4Lift the bar back up to the starting position as you exhale.
  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

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Frequently Asked Questions

What muscles does Seated Barbell Military Press work?

Seated Barbell Military Press primarily targets the Shoulders. It also works the Triceps as secondary muscles.

What equipment do I need for Seated Barbell Military Press?

Seated Barbell Military Press requires Barbell.

Is Seated Barbell Military Press suitable for beginners?

Seated Barbell Military Press is classified as intermediate level. Beginners should master foundational movements first.

Alternatives to Seated Barbell Military Press

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