Exercise library · Shoulders

Dumbbell Shoulder Press.

A compound overhead pressing exercise that develops overall shoulder strength and mass.

IntermediateDumbbells
Dumbbell Shoulder Press
The numbers
Sets
3–5
Reps
5–10
Rest
90–180
Muscles
Primary
Front delts · Side delts
Secondary
Triceps · Traps
The play-by-play

How to do it.

  1. Step 01

    Sit on a bench with back support, holding a dumbbell in each hand at shoulder height.

  2. Step 02

    Palms should face forward or slightly inward, elbows pointing out to the sides.

  3. Step 03

    Press the dumbbells upwards until your arms are fully extended overhead.

  4. Step 04

    Avoid locking out your elbows completely at the top.

  5. Step 05

    Slowly lower the dumbbells back to the starting position with control.

  6. Step 06

    Maintain tension in your shoulders throughout the entire movement.

What separates good from great

Pro cues.

  • Brace your core to protect your lower back.

  • Control the descent to maximize time under tension.

  • Do not let the dumbbells touch at the top to maintain constant tension.