Overhead Press (Smith Machine)
Learn how to do the Overhead Press (Smith Machine) with proper form, setup, and execution.
This smith machine movement primarily targets shoulders, including front shoulder, side shoulder, rear shoulder.
How to Perform Overhead Press (Smith Machine)
- 1
Add the appropriate amount of weight and set the bar on a Smith machine at shoulder height.
- 2
Sit or stand under the bar and grab it with an overhand grip just outside shoulder-width.
- 3
Unrack the bar and hold it at your upper chest.
- 4
Retract your shoulder blades, engage your abs, and take a breath.
- 5
Press the bar straight up until your arms are fully extended, squeezing your shoulders at the top and exhale.
- 6
Slowly lower the bar back to your upper chest and breathe in.
- 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.
| Goal | Sets | Reps | Rest |
|---|---|---|---|
| Strength | 3-5 | 4-6 | 2-3 min |
| Muscle Growth | 3-4 | 8-12 | 60-90 sec |
| Endurance | 2-3 | 15-20 | 30-60 sec |
| Beginner | 2-3 | 10-15 | 60-90 sec |
Want to pair movements efficiently? Try grouping them as supersets.