Lever Selectorized Incline Shoulder Press

Description:

The Lever Selectorized Incline Shoulder Press is a vertical pressing exercise that drives the weight from shoulder height to a locked out position overhead. The inclined angle brings the upper chest in to assist the front of the shoulder. It is a foundational movement for building strong, capable shoulders.

Benefits:

• Works the front deltoid together with the upper chest.
• Develops the triceps as the arms lock out.
• Builds overhead pressing strength and stability.
• Carries over to other pressing and overhead lifts.
• Strengthens the trunk when pressed from a standing position.

Profile:

Equipment:	Selectorized Machine
Type:	Strength Training Machine
Resistance Type:	Selectorized (Weight Stack)
Level:	Beginner

Muscles:

Primary Muscles

• Anterior Deltoid
• Pectoralis Major (Clavicular / Upper Chest)

Secondary Muscles

• Triceps Brachii
• Lateral Deltoid

Classification:

Mechanics:	Compound
Force:	Push
Utility:	Basic

Instructions:

1. Sit in the selectorized incline shoulder press machine, set the pin and the seat so the handles start at upper chest height.
2. Bring the weight to the starting position at shoulder height and brace your core with your ribs pulled down.
3. Press the weight straight up overhead, moving your head slightly back so the weight clears your face.
4. Lock your arms out fully so the weight finishes over the middle of your head.
5. Lower under control back to the starting height.
6. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

Common Mistakes:

• Stopping short of a full lockout overhead.
• Leaning back excessively and turning it into an incline press.
• Flaring or tucking the elbows out of a strong pressing line.
• Pressing the weight forward instead of straight up.
• Losing the core brace and arching the lower back.

Variations:

• Dumbbell Standing Overhead Shoulder Press
• Barbell Seated Overhead Shoulder Press
• Dumbbell Push Press
• Dumbbell Arnold Press

Safety Tips:

• Keep the core braced and ribs down to protect the lower back.
• Press inside a rack with the safeties set when going heavy.
• Warm up the shoulders thoroughly before heavy pressing.
• Stop if you feel pinching in the shoulder or elbow pain.

Additional Information:

The incline shoulder press sits between a flat press and a full overhead press, so the upper chest assists the front deltoid. The more upright the angle, the more the shoulder takes over.

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