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Dumbbell Arnold Press

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Dumbbell Arnold Press.

MediumFront shoulders

About this exercise

The Arnold Press is a classic shoulder exercise popularised by Arnold Schwarzenegger that adds a rotation to a standard dumbbell overhead press. The rotating arc engages all three heads of the deltoid more thoroughly than a conventional press.

How to Perform

  • Sit on a bench with back support (or stand) holding a dumbbell in each hand at shoulder height, palms facing you and elbows bent
  • As you press the dumbbells overhead, simultaneously rotate your wrists outward so your palms face forward at the top
  • Extend your arms fully overhead at the top of the movement
  • Reverse the rotation as you lower the dumbbells, ending with palms facing you again at shoulder height
  • Repeat for the desired number of repetitions

Muscle Activation

Primary
Front shoulders
Secondary
TricepsSide shouldersMiddle chest

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes content is coming soon.

About the Dumbbell Arnold Press

The Dumbbell Arnold Press is a foundational movement that builds strength and muscle through controlled, progressive overload. Train it 1 to 2 times per week with 3 to 5 working sets per session, gradually adding weight or reps as form holds up.