Machine shoulder press
Shoulders · Machine · also triceps (back of the arms)
Set up
A shoulder press machine. Set the seat so the handles start at about shoulder height.
Steps
- Sit with your back flat against the pad and your feet flat on the floor.
- Hold the handles with your wrists straight.
- Press the handles up until your arms are straight, without locking your elbows.
- Lower them slowly back to shoulder height.
Keep in mind
- Back stays against the pad
- Breathe out as you press
- Don't let the weights clang down between reps
Common mistake
Arching your back to push the handles up. Keep it flat against the pad and go lighter.
Safety
Check the pin is pushed fully into the weight stack before you start.
Stop and rest if you feel chest pain, dizziness, unusual shortness of breath or sharp joint pain. Get medical help if it doesn't settle.