Shoulders · Machine

Smith Machine Overhead Shoulder Press

Fixed bar path, all shoulder, no balance tax.

Smith Machine Overhead Shoulder Press exercise demonstration
ShouldersSecondary: TricepsMachine

How to do it

  1. Sit or stand under the Smith bar and grip it at shoulder width, just above your shoulders.
  2. Unrack the bar and brace your core.
  3. Press the bar straight up the fixed track until your arms lock out.
  4. Lower under control back to shoulder height.

The one cue that matters

Because the bar path is fixed, set your seat so the bar travels right over your shoulders, not in front.

Muscles worked

The Smith Machine Overhead Shoulder Press 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 Smith Machine Overhead Shoulder Press work?

The Smith Machine Overhead Shoulder Press 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 Smith Machine Overhead Shoulder Press?

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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