Overhead Press

Benefits

• • Builds shoulder strength and stability
• • Engages the core for total-body strength

Step by step

1. 1Stand with the bar racked at shoulder height, hands just outside shoulder-width.
2. 2Brace your core and press the bar straight overhead.
3. 3Lock out at the top with the bar over your mid-foot.
4. 4Lower back down to shoulder height with control.

Breathing guide

Inhale before pressing, exhale as you lock out overhead.

Common mistakes

• • Arching the lower back excessively
• • Pressing the bar forward instead of straight up

Safety tips

• • Squeeze your glutes to stay tight through the lift.
• • Move your head back slightly as the bar passes your face.

Variations

• • Seated overhead press
• • Push press