Overhead Press (Barbell) demonstration

Overhead Press (Barbell)

Learn how to do the Overhead Press (Barbell) with proper form, setup, and execution.

This barbell movement primarily targets shoulders, including front shoulder, side shoulder, rear shoulder.

How to Perform Overhead Press (Barbell)

  1. 1

    Add the appropriate amount of weight and set the barbell on a rack at shoulder height.

  2. 2

    Grab the bar with an overhand grip just outside shoulder-width and unrack it, stepping back.

  3. 3

    Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and the bar resting on your upper chest.

  4. 4

    Retract your shoulder blades, engage your abs, and take a breath.

  5. 5

    Press the bar overhead until your arms are fully extended, squeezing your shoulders at the top and exhale.

  6. 6

    Slowly lower the bar back to your upper chest and breathe in.

  7. 7

    Repeat for the desired number of repetitions, then rack the bar.

Training Guidelines

The targets below are general guidelines. Adjust volume and intensity based on your experience, recovery, and goals. If you track effort, aim for most working sets around RPE 7–9.

GoalSetsRepsRest
Strength3-54-62-3 min
Muscle Growth3-48-1260-90 sec
Endurance2-315-2030-60 sec
Beginner2-310-1560-90 sec

Want to pair movements efficiently? Try grouping them as supersets.

Frequently Asked Questions