Skip to content

Barbell Push Press

Dip at the knees and drive the bar overhead with leg power, locking out with the head through the arms.

Get started

See your setup in four steps

Demo video from YouTube, played in its own player.

Equipment
Barbell
Movement
Push

Sets and reps

  • For strength: 3 to 5 sets of 3 to 6 reps, resting 2 to 3 minutes between sets.
  • For muscle: 3 to 4 sets of 6 to 12 reps (up to 15 on smaller lifts), resting 1 to 2 minutes, ending each set 1 to 3 reps short of failure (RPE 7 to 9).
  • Add a rep or a small amount of weight once every set reaches the top of the range at the same effort.

General ranges, not medical advice. Stop if anything hurts.

Variations

The same movement with other equipment or a different angle.

Alternatives

Other exercises for the front delts, for when the barbell is taken or you want a change.

Questions

What muscles does the Barbell Push Press work?
The Barbell Push Press mainly works the front delts, side delts and triceps.
What equipment do you need for the Barbell Push Press?
A barbell.
How many sets and reps of the Barbell Push Press?
For strength: 3 to 5 sets of 3 to 6 reps, resting 2 to 3 minutes between sets. For muscle: 3 to 4 sets of 6 to 12 reps (up to 15 on smaller lifts), resting 1 to 2 minutes, ending each set 1 to 3 reps short of failure (RPE 7 to 9). Add a rep or a small amount of weight once every set reaches the top of the range at the same effort.
What can I do instead of the Barbell Push Press?
Arm Circles, Band Front Raise, Band Overhead Press and Band Shoulder Dislocates work the same main muscle.

Program it for your clients

Coaches add the Barbell Push Press to any workout in CoachVana, set the sets, reps, load and rest, and clients see this demo as they train.

Get started

See your setup in four steps

Your first 3 clients are free. 0% commission on everything you sell.