Exercise / 171Animation available
Dumbbell Shoulder Press demonstration

Illustration by RepDB

Strength / Dumbbell

Dumbbell Shoulder Press

An overhead press with dumbbells performed seated or standing, building the front and side delts.

Equipment

Dumbbell

Experience

intermediate

Movement

compound

Primary musclesSecondary muscles

Triceps · Traps

Instructions

  1. 01

    Sit or stand holding dumbbells at shoulder height, palms facing forward.

  2. 02

    Press both dumbbells overhead until arms are fully extended.

  3. 03

    Keep your core braced and avoid arching your lower back.

  4. 04

    Lower the dumbbells under control back to shoulder height.

  5. 05

    Do not let the dumbbells drift behind your head.

  6. 06

    Repeat for the desired number of reps.

Choose a load and range you can control. These instructions are general guidance, not a substitute for individual coaching.