FastFit BETA
BasicStrength
Drag to rotate 360°
Speed for this exercise

Machine Shoulder Press

Try it now
3sets
10-12reps
90srest
~4.3kcal/min

How to do it

Muscles worked

Secondary
TricepsChest

Secondary muscles help but are not the main target

See the full tier list · Shoulders

Feel it right

Where you should feel it, the one cue to remember, and quick fixes when you feel it somewhere else.

You should feel it inShoulders

Front and side of the shoulders, with triceps helping at the top.

Key cue (the coach says it during the set)“Ribs down, brace, press straight up.”

Tempo · Lower 2 s · press 1 s

Choosing the load: Pick a weight you finish with 1–2 good reps left. 4+ left = too light; form breaks = too heavy.

Feel it somewhere else? Fix it like this

  • Feel it in Lower backLeaning back and arching to press. Squeeze glutes and abs, or sit with back support, and lighten the load.
  • Feel it in Neck / upper trapsShrugging from the start. Begin with shoulders down; let them rise only at the very top.
  • Feel it in Back of armsElbows flared behind the body. Bring the elbows slightly forward, under the wrists.
  • Barely felt itToo light or too fast. Lower for 3 seconds, pause 1 second at the stretch, and pick a load that leaves only 1–2 reps in the tank.
  • Joint painSharp or joint pain is a stop sign: end this set, lower the weight, shorten the range — if it repeats, switch to an easier variation.

During a workout we ask after the first set where you felt it and give the fix right away — and remember it for next time.

Tips

  • Sit tall with your back supported so the target muscle does the work.
  • Keep your head against the pad and avoid pushing it forward as you press.
  • A good choice for beginners and for safely training close to failure.
  • Adjust the seat so your joint lines up with the machine’s pivot point.

Common mistakes

  • Arching away from the backrest to move more weight.

Breathing

Exhale as you press up, inhale as you lower.

Equipment needed

Recommended by goal

Build muscle3–4 sets × 8–12 reps · rest 60–90 s
Strength4–5 sets × 4–6 reps · rest 2–3 min
Endurance2–3 sets × 15–20 reps · rest 30–45 s

Variations of this move

Alternatives for the same muscle