Exercise library · Shoulders
Dumbbell Shoulder Press.
A compound overhead pressing exercise that develops overall shoulder strength and mass.
IntermediateDumbbells

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.
- Step 01
Sit on a bench with back support, holding a dumbbell in each hand at shoulder height.
- Step 02
Palms should face forward or slightly inward, elbows pointing out to the sides.
- Step 03
Press the dumbbells upwards until your arms are fully extended overhead.
- Step 04
Avoid locking out your elbows completely at the top.
- Step 05
Slowly lower the dumbbells back to the starting position with control.
- 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.