How to perform Barbell Seated Overhead Press with proper form
Setup
- Equipment: Use a barbell and a bench with back support.
- Grip: Position your hands slightly wider than shoulder-width on the barbell.
- Seating: Sit on the bench with your back firmly against the support and feet flat on the floor.
Starting Position
- Bar Position: Lift the barbell to shoulder height, resting it across your upper chest and front deltoids.
- Elbow Position: Keep elbows slightly in front of the bar and pointed downwards.
Execution
- Engage Core: Tighten your core and maintain a neutral spine throughout the movement.
- Pressing Motion: Push the barbell upward in a straight line above your head, fully extending your arms but not locking out elbows.
- Control Descent: Lower the barbell back to shoulder height under control, keeping elbows engaged.
Tips for Proper Form
- Keep your wrists straight and aligned with your forearms.
- Avoid arching your back; maintain a straight posture.
- Ensure your head is in a neutral position, looking forward as you press.
Safety
- Use a spotter or safety bars if lifting heavy weights.
- Start with lighter weight to master the form before increasing load.
Common Mistakes
- Arching the back excessively during the press.
- Letting elbows flop out to the side instead of keeping them aligned.
- Not engaging the core, which can destabilize the lift.
By following these steps, you can effectively perform the seated overhead press with proper form, maximizing benefits and minimizing injury risk.
Exercises
Bench Dip, Bodyweight
Type: Upper, Push
Target: Triceps
Synergist: Shoulders, Back, Chest
Bench Press Close Grip, Barbell
Type: Upper, Push
Target: Triceps
Synergist: Shoulders, Chest
Bench Press Close Grip, Smith Machine
Type: Upper, Push
Target: Triceps
Synergist: Shoulders, Chest
Bench Press Close Grip, EZ Bar
Type: Upper, Push
Target: Triceps
Synergist: Shoulders, Chest
Cable Kickback, Cable
Type: Upper, Push
Target: Triceps
Handstand Push Up, Bodyweight
Type: Upper, Push
Target: Triceps
Synergist: Shoulders, Chest
Muscle Up, Bodyweight
Type: Upper, Pull
Target: Biceps, Forearms, Shoulders, Back, Chest, Triceps
Skullcrusher, Barbell
Type: Upper, Push
Target: Triceps
Skullcrusher, Cable
Type: Upper, Push
Target: Triceps
Skullcrusher, Dumbbell
Type: Upper, Push
Target: Triceps
Skullcrusher, EZ Bar
Type: Upper, Push
Target: Triceps
Triceps Dip, Bodyweight
Type: Upper, Push
Target: Triceps
Synergist: Back, Chest, Shoulders
Triceps Dip, Leverage Machine
Type: Upper, Push
Target: Triceps
Synergist: Back, Chest, Shoulders
Triceps Extension, Barbell
Type: Upper, Push
Target: Triceps
Triceps Extension, Cable
Type: Upper, Push
Target: Triceps
Triceps Extension, Dumbbell
Type: Upper, Push
Target: Triceps
Triceps Extension, Band
Type: Upper, Push
Target: Triceps
Triceps Pushdown, Cable
Type: Upper, Push
Target: Triceps
Arnold Press, Dumbbell
Type: Upper, Push
Target: Shoulders
Synergist: Chest, Triceps
Arnold Press, Kettlebell
Type: Upper, Push
Target: Shoulders
Synergist: Chest, Triceps