Barbell Seated Behind-the-Head Military Press - How to Perform, Muscles, Variants | SatisFIT Skip to main content

Barbell Seated Behind-the-Head Military Press

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Barbell Seated Behind-the-Head Military Press.

HardFront shoulders

About this exercise

The barbell seated behind-the-head military press targets the lateral and anterior deltoids by pressing from a position behind the neck. Because the bar path places significant stress on the shoulder joint, this exercise is recommended only for athletes with adequate shoulder mobility and experience.

How to Perform

  • Sit upright on an adjustable bench set to vertical or near-vertical back support
  • Have a partner hand you the bar, or unrack it from a squat rack positioned at shoulder height
  • Hold the bar with a grip slightly wider than shoulder-width and position it at the base of your skull behind your head
  • Press the bar straight overhead until your arms are fully extended
  • Slowly lower the bar back behind your head to the starting position
  • Keep your core engaged and avoid excessive forward lean throughout the set

Muscle Activation

Primary
Front shoulders
Secondary
TricepsSide shouldersMiddle chest

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes content is coming soon.

About the Barbell Seated Behind-the-Head Military Press

The Barbell Seated Behind-the-Head Military 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.