Dumbbell Shoulder Press
The dumbbell shoulder press is a shoulders exercise that targets the shoulders with dumbbell. Watch the demo, then follow the step-by-step form guide below.
One rep, playing on a loop. Use the controls to pause it or scrub through the movement.
How to do the dumbbell shoulder press
While holding a dumbbell in each hand, sit on a military press bench or utility bench that has back support. Place the dumbbells upright on top of your thighs.
Now raise the dumbbells to shoulder height one at a time using your thighs to help propel them up into position.
Make sure to rotate your wrists so that the palms of your hands are facing forward. This is your starting position.
Now, exhale and push the dumbbells upward until they touch at the top.
Then, after a brief pause at the top contracted position, slowly lower the weights back down to the starting position while inhaling.
Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.
Want this in a plan?
Build a weekly routine around the dumbbell shoulder press and the rest of your shoulders work, matched to your goal and the equipment you have.
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Related shoulders exercises
Browse all shoulders exercises, read our dumbbell workout for back and shoulders guide, or return to the exercise library.
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Educational information only — not medical advice. Stop if you feel pain and talk to your healthcare provider before starting a new exercise program.
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