Description:
The Axle Bar Overhead Press is a strongman pressing movement. Pressing a thick strongman implement overhead builds raw overhead strength along with grip and core stability.
Benefits:
- Builds raw overhead pressing strength.
- Develops the deltoids and triceps.
- Builds grip and core stability with a thick implement.
- Carries over to overhead and athletic strength.
- Trains full body coordination under load.
Profile:
| Equipment: | Axle Bar |
| Type: | Strongman |
| Resistance Type: | Free Weight |
| Level: | Intermediate |
Muscles:
Primary Muscles
- Anterior Deltoid
- Lateral Deltoid
Secondary Muscles
- Triceps Brachii
- Upper Trapezius
- Forearms
Classification:
| Mechanics: | Compound |
| Force: | Push |
| Utility: | Basic |
Instructions:
- Clean a loaded axle bar to your shoulders, or take it from a rack, and set your feet about hip width.
- Bring the implement to the front of your shoulders and brace your core.
- Press it straight overhead to a full lockout, moving your head back to clear it.
- Lock the arms out fully so the weight finishes over the middle of your head.
- Lower under control back to your shoulders.
- Repeat for the desired reps.
Common Mistakes:
- Stopping short of a full lockout overhead.
- Letting the lower back arch under the load.
- Losing the implement forward away from the body.
- Rushing reps and losing position.
Variations:
- Barbell Overhead Shoulder Press
- Dumbbell Push Press
- Axle Bar Clean and Press
- Log Press
Safety Tips:
- Brace the core hard and keep the ribs down.
- Use a weight you can control overhead.
- Keep the space clear and drop the implement safely if needed.
- Stop if you feel shoulder or lower back pain.
Additional Information:
Pressing a thick implement overhead taxes the shoulders, triceps, grip, and core. Lock the weight out fully overhead to keep the deltoids working through the whole range.
ExercisesBrowse the full exercise database ›