Shoulders · Barbell

Seated Overhead Press (Barbell)

Heavy strict pressing, locked to the bench.

Seated Overhead Press (Barbell) exercise demonstration
ShouldersSecondary: TricepsBarbell

How to do it

  1. Sit on an upright bench and unrack the barbell at upper-chest height, hands just wider than shoulders.
  2. Press the bar straight up until your arms lock out overhead.
  3. Pause at the top with the bar over your shoulders.
  4. Lower the bar back to your upper chest under control.

The one cue that matters

Brace hard and keep your ribs down, the seated position takes away leg drive so press strict.

Muscles worked

The Seated Overhead Press (Barbell) is a Shoulders-first movement, with Triceps working as the supporting cast. Track it consistently and you'll see exactly how it feeds your shoulders volume for the week.

FAQ

What muscles does the Seated Overhead Press (Barbell) work?

The Seated Overhead Press (Barbell) primarily works the Shoulders with Triceps assisting.

How heavy should I go?

Pick a weight where you finish each set with 1 to 2 clean reps left in the tank. Own the top of your rep range before adding weight.

How many sets and reps of Seated Overhead Press (Barbell)?

For most lifters 3 to 4 working sets. Pick the rep range that fits your goal and progress the load when the top of the range feels owned.

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