Exercises · shoulders

Barbell Seated Behind-The-Neck Press

A shoulder press variation performed seated with a barbell lowered behind the neck to target the deltoids.

shouldersdeltoidsbarbelladvancedcompound

Secondary muscles

tricepsupper trapezius

How to do it

  1. Sit on a bench with back support; grip barbell wider than shoulders.
  2. Unrack barbell and hold above your head.
  3. Lower barbell behind your head to just below ear level.
  4. Press barbell back up to the starting position.
  5. Repeat for desired reps, keeping core engaged.

Form cues

  • Keep back upright
  • Don't arch lower back
  • Lower bar with control
  • Use full range

Common mistakes

  • Flaring elbows excessively
  • Arching lower back
  • Lowering bar too far

Breathing

Exhale when pressing up, inhale when lowering the bar.

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