Overhead Shoulder Press

Want to build upper body strength and tone your biceps, shoulders, and back? One of the most effective exercises for doing so is the overhead shoulder press. Whether you’re a strength training newbie or just want to brush up on your form, watch this quick video as Chris Freytag demonstrates how to properly do an overhead shoulder press to get strong and toned. You’ll need a set of dumbbells to perform this exercise, and a little space. Ready to get strong? Let’s go!

A quick note on the heaviness of your weights: some people wonder how heavy of a weight to use in exercises like this. You should use weights that are “comfortably hard.” So by the end of 8-12 repetitions, it’s quite challenging. Go as heavy as you can without straining or injuring yourself. For most people, 10 pounds is a good starting point, but know yourself and your limits! To get started, pick up two weights and bring them up into two right angles. Soften your knees slightly and engage your abdominals. Press your weights all the way up to the sky and then press them back down, keeping your shoulders away from your ears. Remember to exhale as you lift up your weights and inhale as you bring them back down.

The main area that the overhead shoulder press works is the top of the shoulder, also called the medial deltoid. Strong shoulders and arms are essential for carrying out everyday tasks, but they also give you a nice, toned appearance in your upper body. Strength training your upper body with moves like an overhead shoulder press is a win-win! You can also try other shoulder workouts to keep your upper body strong, toned, and sleek!