Shoulders · Dumbbell

Seated Overhead Press (Dumbbell)

Strict seated pressing for boulder shoulders.

Seated Overhead Press (Dumbbell) exercise demonstration
ShouldersSecondary: TricepsDumbbell

How to do it

  1. Sit on an upright bench with a dumbbell in each hand at shoulder height.
  2. Press both dumbbells up until your arms lock out overhead.
  3. Pause briefly at the top.
  4. Lower the dumbbells back to shoulder height under control.

The one cue that matters

Keep your back against the pad and core braced, don't arch to push the weight up.

Muscles worked

The Seated Overhead Press (Dumbbell) 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 (Dumbbell) work?

The Seated Overhead Press (Dumbbell) 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 (Dumbbell)?

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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