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Seated barbell military press

 

Seated barbell military press

The seated barbell military press is a shoulder exercise that primarily targets the muscles of the shoulders, as well as the triceps and upper back muscles. The exercise is performed by sitting on a bench or a military press machine and pressing a barbell overhead from a seated position. The seated barbell military press can help to improve upper body strength and muscle development, making it a popular exercise for athletes and fitness enthusiasts.

Main muscles used doing the seated barbell military press

The seated barbell military press primarily targets the muscles of the shoulders, specifically the deltoid muscles. The front deltoids are the primary movers in this exercise, with the middle and rear deltoids also being worked to a lesser extent. The triceps and upper back muscles, including the trapezius and rhomboids, are also engaged to help support the movement. Overall, the seated barbell military press is an effective exercise for building shoulder strength and muscle mass

Instructions on how to do the seated barbell military press

Here are the instructions on how to do the seated barbell military press:

  1. Start by sitting on a bench or a military press machine with your feet flat on the ground, and the barbell resting on the supports in front of you.
  2. Grip the barbell with a slightly wider than shoulder-width grip, with your palms facing forward.
  3. Lift the barbell off the supports and hold it at shoulder height, with your elbows bent and your upper arms parallel to the ground.
  4. Take a deep breath and brace your core.
  5. Press the barbell overhead in a straight line, keeping your elbows close to your body and your wrists straight.
  6. Once the barbell reaches the top of the movement, hold for a brief moment.
  7. Slowly lower the barbell back down to the starting position, and repeat the exercise for the desired number of repetitions.
  8. Once you have completed your set, carefully rack the barbell and rest.

Remember to use proper form throughout the exercise, and to avoid arching your back or using momentum to lift the weight. Focus on pressing the barbell in a straight line, and avoid pushing the barbell too far forward or backward. If you find it difficult to perform the exercise with proper form, you can reduce the weight or ask a trainer for assistance.

Tips for doing the seated barbell military press

Here are some tips for doing the seated barbell military press effectively and safely:

  • Use proper form: Keep your back straight and your core engaged throughout the exercise to avoid arching your back or using momentum to lift the weight. Focus on pressing the barbell in a straight line, and avoid pushing the barbell too far forward or backward.
  • Use an appropriate weight: Select a weight that allows you to perform the exercise with good control and technique, and avoid using a weight that is too heavy for you.
  • Engage your shoulder muscles: Focus on engaging your shoulder muscles throughout the exercise, particularly the front deltoids, to maximize muscle activation and improve the effectiveness of the exercise.
  • Breathe properly: Inhale as you lower the barbell, and exhale as you lift the barbell.
  • Use a slow and controlled tempo: Perform the exercise in a slow and controlled manner to maximize muscle activation and minimize the risk of injury.
  • Use a spotter: If you are using heavy weights, it is recommended to have a spotter to assist you with the exercise and help you to avoid injury.
  • Stretch after the exercise: Stretch your shoulder muscles after the exercise to reduce soreness and prevent injury.

Remember to consult with a qualified fitness professional if you are new to exercise or have any pre-existing injuries or medical conditions.

Benefits of doing the seated barbell military press

Here are some benefits of doing the seated barbell military press:

  • Improved shoulder strength: The seated barbell military press is an effective exercise for building shoulder strength, particularly in the front deltoid muscles. Strong shoulders can help to improve posture and reduce the risk of injury.
  • Improved upper body muscle development: The seated barbell military press is a compound exercise that engages multiple muscle groups in the upper body, including the deltoids, triceps, and upper back muscles, making it an effective exercise for building overall upper body muscle mass and definition.
  • Increased functional strength: The seated barbell military press can help to improve functional strength, which is the ability to perform everyday tasks with ease, such as lifting heavy objects or carrying groceries.
  • Convenience: The seated barbell military press can be performed with a barbell and a bench or military press machine, which are commonly found in most gyms, making it a convenient exercise option.
  • Improved bone density: Weight-bearing exercises such as the seated barbell military press can help to improve bone density, which can reduce the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.

Remember to use proper form and technique, and to consult with a qualified fitness professional if you are new to exercise or have any pre-existing injuries or medical conditions.

For other shoulder exercises like seated barbell military press, go to http://bptrainingcoaching.com/shoulder-exercises/.