How to do it
- Stand or sit tall and hold dumbbells at shoulder height with palms facing forward.
- Brace your abs and keep your ribs down.
- Press the weights overhead until your arms are straight and your biceps are near your ears.
- Lower to shoulder height with control.
Common mistakes
- Arching the lower back. Squeeze your glutes and keep ribs down.
- Pressing in front of you. Move the weights slightly back over your head.
- Shrugging up to your ears. Keep your shoulders away from your ears.
Make it easier or harder
Easier: Sit with back support or use lighter weights.
Harder: Press one arm at a time, which makes your core work harder.
Coaching tip
If you cannot lock out overhead comfortably, check your upper back and shoulder mobility before adding weight.