Exercise guide

Standing Barbell Military Press

The Standing Barbell Military Press targets the shoulders and triceps by pressing the barbell overhead while standing.

Category
Strength
Difficulty
Intermediate
Movement
Compound
Bodyweight
No
How to

How to do the Standing Barbell Military Press

  1. 01

    Stand with feet shoulder width apart holding a barbell at upper chest level.

  2. 02

    Grip the bar slightly wider than shoulder width.

  3. 03

    Brace your core and keep your chest lifted.

  4. 04

    Press the bar straight overhead until your arms are fully extended.

  5. 05

    Keep your head neutral and avoid leaning back.

  6. 06

    Lower the bar under control back to upper chest level.

Performance tips

Cues that matter

  • Keep your core tight to protect your lower back
  • Press the bar in a straight vertical path
  • Control the lowering phase to maintain tension
Equipment

What you need

Common questions

Frequently asked

What muscles does the Standing Barbell Military Press work?

The Standing Barbell Military Press primarily targets the Shoulders. Supporting muscles include Triceps.

Is the Standing Barbell Military Press a compound or isolation exercise?

The Standing Barbell Military Press is a compound exercise, meaning it works multiple muscle groups and joints in a single movement.

What equipment do I need for the Standing Barbell Military Press?

You need the following equipment: Barbell, Squat Rack.

What difficulty level is the Standing Barbell Military Press?

The Standing Barbell Military Press is rated as intermediate difficulty. Some training experience is helpful for performing this exercise safely.

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