Dumbbell California Press
Blend a close press and a skull crusher, lowering to the forehead then pressing to lockout.
Get started
See your setup in four steps
Demo video from YouTube, played in its own player.
- Equipment
- Dumbbell
- 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.
Alternatives
Other exercises for the triceps, for when the dumbbell is taken or you want a change.
Questions
- What muscles does the Dumbbell California Press work?
- The Dumbbell California Press mainly works the triceps and chest.
- What equipment do you need for the Dumbbell California Press?
- A dumbbell.
- How many sets and reps of the Dumbbell California 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 Dumbbell California Press?
- Band Overhead Triceps Extension, Band Triceps Pushdown, Barbell Close-Grip Bench Press and Barbell JM Press work the same main muscle.
Program it for your clients
Coaches add the Dumbbell California 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.