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Arnold Press

Difficulty: ⭐⭐ Intermediatepush

Home Setup

Use a sturdy chair with back support or perform standing

Chair with backrestDumbbells or water bottlesStable surface

💡 Pro tip: Start with lighter weight to master the rotation pattern

Gym Setup

Adjustable bench set to 90 degrees or standing position with dumbbells

Safety: Keep core tight, avoid excessive arching of lower back, control the rotation

💪 Muscles Worked

Anterior DeltoidMedial DeltoidPosterior DeltoidUpper PectoralisTriceps Brachii

⭐ Why This Exercise?

The Arnold Press uniquely targets all three deltoid heads through its rotational movement pattern, providing comprehensive shoulder development. The rotation from palms-in to palms-out increases time under tension and recruits more muscle fibers than standard overhead presses, making it exceptional for hypertrophy and building well-rounded, three-dimensional shoulders.

Make It Easier

Regressions for building up strength

1. Seated Dumbbell Press

dumbbells + bench

Removes rotation complexity

2. Single Arm Arnold Press

dumbbell

Focus on one side at a time

3. Partial Range Arnold Press

dumbbells

Reduces range of motion to build strength

Make It Harder

Progressions for advanced athletes

1. Standing Arnold Press

dumbbells

Adds core stability requirement

2. Single Arm Standing Arnold Press

dumbbell

Maximum stability and unilateral strength

3. Arnold Press with Pause

dumbbells

Increases time under tension

↕️ Similar Movements

Overhead Press
Similar vertical push without rotation
Dumbbell Shoulder Press
Same movement without pronation/supination
Front Raise
Targets anterior deltoid isolation
Lateral Raise
Targets middle deltoid
Cuban Press
Similar rotation pattern with external rotation

Form Checklist

Start with palms facing you at shoulder height
Rotate palms outward as you press up
End with palms facing forward at top
Reverse the motion on the way down
Keep elbows in front of body at start

Common Mistakes

  • Rushing the rotation
  • Arching lower back excessively
  • Not completing full rotation
  • Using too much weight
  • Flaring elbows out too early

📈 When to Progress

When you can perform 12 reps with controlled rotation and no form breakdown for 3 sets