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Push Press

Also written as BB push press, Push press

Advanced movement. Use appropriate equipment, safety pins or spotters, and a load you can control. If you are unfamiliar with the movement, learn the technique before attempting the programmed intensity.

What it trains

anterior deltoid, triceps brachii

Also: quadriceps, gluteus maximus, core

Equipment

barbell, rack

Setup

  • Start with the bar racked on the front of the shoulders, feet hip width.
  • Brace the trunk and keep the torso vertical.

Execution

  1. 1.Dip by bending the knees a few inches, keeping the torso upright.
  2. 2.Reverse sharply, driving through the legs to launch the bar.
  3. 3.As the bar leaves the shoulders, press it the rest of the way to lockout.
  4. 4.Lower back to the shoulders and reset before the next rep.

Breathing

Inhale and brace before the dip, exhale after lockout.

Form cues

  • Dip short and vertical — this is not a squat.
  • Let the legs start the bar, then the arms finish it.
  • Keep the bar path straight up.

Common mistakes

  • Dipping forward so the bar rolls off the shoulders.
  • Dipping too deep and losing the elastic drive.
  • Pressing before the legs have finished.

Technique written to align with

  • NSCA — Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning

Instructions and diagrams on this page are original to QuantumWorkout.