Exercises · shoulders

Seated Dumbbell Shoulder Press

A pressing movement targeting the shoulders, performed seated with dumbbells.

shouldersdeltoidsdumbbellbeginnercompound

Secondary muscles

triceps brachiitrapeziusupper chest

How to do it

  1. Sit on a bench with back support and feet flat.
  2. Hold dumbbells at shoulder height, elbows bent.
  3. Press dumbbells overhead until arms are extended.
  4. Pause briefly at the top.
  5. Lower dumbbells to starting position.

Form cues

  • Keep back pressed to pad
  • Do not arch lower back
  • Press overhead
  • Elbows under wrists

Common mistakes

  • Arching back excessively
  • Lowering weights too fast
  • Letting elbows drop too low
  • Pressing weights out in front

Breathing

Exhale as you press up, inhale as you lower down.

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