Videos
Instructions
- Sit down and adjust the seat so that the handles are at shoulder height.
- Grip the handles with a wide, overhand grip.
- Engage your core and press the handles upward until your arms are fully extended.
- Pause briefly at the top, then slowly lower the handles back to the starting position.
- Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.
Technical Tips
- Keep your back firmly against the pad throughout the movement.
- Avoid locking out your elbows at the top.
- Do not arch your lower back or use momentum to push the weight.
- Keep your wrists straight and aligned with your forearms.
Breathing Tips
- Inhale as you lower the handles down.
- Exhale forcefully as you press the handles upward.
Medical restrictions
- Shoulder impingement syndrome
- Rotator cuff injuries
- Cervical spine disorders
The Machine Shoulder Press – Wide Grip is a fundamental strength training exercise designed to build upper body power and size, specifically targeting the deltoids. Using a guided machine provides added stability, making it a safe and effective option for beginners and advanced athletes alike. The wide grip increases lateral deltoid activation, helping develop broader shoulders and improved shoulder definition. Seated execution with back support minimizes strain on the lower back, making it suitable for individuals with core instability or spinal concerns. This exercise is ideal for hypertrophy-focused programs and general upper body strength development. It allows controlled movement patterns, reducing the risk of form breakdown and promoting muscle isolation. Whether you’re aiming for muscle growth, endurance, or rehabilitation, the machine shoulder press offers a scalable and biomechanically sound approach to shoulder training. Regular incorporation of this exercise can lead to improved posture, overhead strength, and shoulder stability.
What muscles does the machine shoulder press with a wide grip target?
The machine shoulder press with a wide grip primarily targets the shoulders, especially the lateral deltoids, and secondarily works the front deltoids and triceps.
Is the machine shoulder press safe for beginners?
Yes, the machine shoulder press is beginner-friendly due to its guided movement path, which helps ensure proper form and reduces the risk of injury.
How should I breathe during a machine shoulder press?
Inhale as you lower the handles and exhale as you press them upward to maintain core stability and exert maximum force.
Can the machine shoulder press replace free weight presses?
While it offers less stabilization work than free weights, the machine shoulder press is excellent for isolated strength development and safe progression, especially for beginners.
What’s the benefit of using a wide grip on the shoulder press machine?
Using a wide grip emphasizes the side deltoids more, helping to build broader shoulders and enhance lateral muscle definition.