Dumbbell Shoulder Press: How-to, Tips & More
The Dumbbell Shoulder Press is a beginner compound exercise for your shoulders. You do it with dumbbells, one side at a time. It is a good fit when your goal is both strength and muscle growth.
Besides the shoulders, it also works your triceps and upper chest, so it fits well in a session that trains those muscles together.
Muscles worked
Shoulders
Primary
Triceps
Secondary
Upper chest
Secondary
How to do the Dumbbell Shoulder Press
- Stand holding dumbbells at shoulder height, palms forward.
- Brace your core.
- Press them overhead until your arms are straight.
- Lower them back to your shoulders.
Dumbbell Shoulder Press tips
- Do not lean back to finish the press.
Sets and reps
Most lifters do well with 6 to 12 reps per set, and 6 to 12 reps is where this exercise tends to work best. Use a weight that leaves one or two reps in reserve on every set, and add weight once you can complete all your sets at the top of the range. It also works well in a superset with an exercise for the opposite muscles. You can finish with a drop set when you want extra volume.
Equipment
Dumbbells
Type
Compound
Dumbbell Shoulder Press alternatives
More shoulders exercises
Alternating Dumbbell Shoulder Press
Dumbbells
Arm Circles
Bodyweight
Band External Rotation
Resistance band
Band Front Raise
Resistance band
Band Overhead Press
Resistance band
Barbell Front Raise
Barbell
Frequently asked questions
What muscles does the Dumbbell Shoulder Press work?
The Dumbbell Shoulder Press mainly works your shoulders, with help from your triceps and upper chest.
How many sets and reps should I do?
A good starting point is 6 to 12 reps per set, and many lifters get the best results between 6 to 12 reps. Use a weight that leaves one or two reps in reserve.
Is the Dumbbell Shoulder Press good for beginners?
Yes. The Dumbbell Shoulder Press is considered beginner and is a good choice if you are new to training. Start light and focus on form.
What equipment do I need for the Dumbbell Shoulder Press?
You need dumbbells.
Add Dumbbell Shoulder Press to your program
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