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Dumbbell Shoulder Press

Difficulty: ⭐⭐ Intermediatepush

Home Setup

Use sturdy chair or bench for back support

ChairBenchStability ballWater bottles or cans as weights

💡 Pro tip: Start with lighter household items like water bottles to master form before progressing to heavier weights

Gym Setup

Adjustable dumbbells and bench with back support

Safety: Keep core braced, avoid arching lower back excessively, ensure stable seating position

Make It Easier

Regressions for building up strength

1. Seated Dumbbell Press

dumbbells + bench

Back support reduces core demand and stabilization

2. Single-Arm Dumbbell Press

dumbbell

Allows focus on one side with lighter weight

3. Pike Push-up

bodyweight

Bodyweight vertical push to build strength

4. Resistance Band Shoulder Press

resistance bands

Variable resistance easier on joints

Make It Harder

Progressions for advanced athletes

1. Standing Dumbbell Press

dumbbells

Requires more core stability and balance

2. Arnold Press

dumbbells

Adds rotation for increased shoulder engagement

3. Single-Arm Standing Press

dumbbell

Maximum stability and anti-rotation demand

4. Push Press

dumbbells

Adds leg drive for heavier loads

↕️ Similar Movements

Barbell Overhead Press
Same pattern with barbell for heavier loads
Lateral Raise
Isolation for side deltoids
Front Raise
Isolation for front deltoids
Face Pull
Posterior shoulder health and balance
Handstand Push-up
Advanced bodyweight vertical push

Form Checklist

Dumbbells start at shoulder height
Press straight up overhead
Keep wrists neutral and stacked
Elbows slightly in front of body
Full lockout at top without hyperextending
Control descent back to shoulders

Common Mistakes

  • Arching lower back excessively
  • Pressing dumbbells forward instead of straight up
  • Not achieving full range of motion
  • Flaring elbows too wide
  • Holding breath instead of breathing rhythmically
  • Banging dumbbells together at top

📈 When to Progress

When you can perform 12 reps with controlled form for 3 sets, and the weight feels manageable throughout the entire range of motion