Barbell Overhead Press

Learn how to do Barbell Overhead Press with proper form. Watch the 4K video, see which muscles are worked, and follow step-by-step instructions.

4K
MET 5 Shoulders TricepsChest Short bar

Barbell Overhead Press is a Short bar exercise that primarily targets the Shoulders, with secondary activation of the Triceps, Chest. It has a MET value of 5, meaning a 70kg person burns approximately 175 calories in a 30-minute session..

How to Do Barbell Overhead Press

A standing pressing exercise using a short bar to build shoulder strength and stability.


💡 Instructions:


  • Stand upright with feet shoulder-width apart, holding a fixed bar at shoulder height with an overhand grip.

  • Keep your core braced and chest up.

  • Press the bar overhead until your arms are fully extended without locking your elbows aggressively.

  • Lower the bar under control back to shoulder height.

  • Repeat for the desired number of reps.


⚠️ Common mistakes:


  • Arching the lower back excessively.

  • Using momentum from the legs when not intended.

  • Not fully controlling the bar during descent.

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Muscles Worked by Barbell Overhead Press

Primary Shoulders
Secondary
TricepsChest

Equipment

  • Short bar

Calories Burned Doing Barbell Overhead Press

Calorie Calculator

MET 5
Estimated burn
175 calories

Calories = MET × weight (kg) × time (hours)

Quick Facts: Barbell Overhead Press

Type
Short bar exercise
Primary muscle
Shoulders
Secondary muscles
Triceps, Chest
MET value
5
Calories (30 min, 70kg)
≈ 175 cal
Video quality
4K with male and female demonstrations

FAQ: Barbell Overhead Press

What muscles does Barbell Overhead Press work?

Barbell Overhead Press primarily targets the Shoulders, with secondary engagement of the Triceps, Chest.

How do you do Barbell Overhead Press correctly?

A standing pressing exercise using a short bar to build shoulder strength and stability. 💡 Instructions: Stand upright with feet shoulder-width apart,...

Is Barbell Overhead Press good for beginners?

Barbell Overhead Press has a MET value of 5, indicating a moderate intensity exercise appropriate for most fitness levels.

What equipment do you need for Barbell Overhead Press?

Barbell Overhead Press requires: Short bar.

What are the benefits of Barbell Overhead Press?

Barbell Overhead Press strengthens the Shoulders, engages the Triceps and Chest.

What exercises are similar to Barbell Overhead Press?

Similar exercises to Barbell Overhead Press include Arm Circles – Small to Large, Barbell Front Raise., Dumbbell Arnold Press – Seated, Dumbbell Bent Over Reverse Fly.

Is Barbell Overhead Press better than Arm Circles – Small to Large?

Both Barbell Overhead Press and Arm Circles – Small to Large target the Shoulders. Choose based on your available equipment and training goals.

Alternative Exercises

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