Barbell Seated French Press - How to Perform, Muscles, Variants | SatisFIT Skip to main content

Barbell Seated French Press

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Barbell Seated French Press.

MediumTriceps

About this exercise

The barbell seated overhead triceps extension is an isolation exercise that stretches the long head of the triceps under load. Performing it seated minimises torso sway and keeps tension on the muscle throughout the range of motion.

How to Perform

  • Sit upright on a bench with back support and hold a barbell with a close overhand grip
  • Press the bar overhead until your arms are fully extended, elbows pointed forward
  • Keeping your upper arms vertical and stationary, slowly lower the bar behind your head by bending your elbows
  • Lower until you feel a deep stretch in the triceps, keeping elbows from flaring excessively
  • Extend your elbows to press the bar back to the starting overhead position
  • Repeat for the desired number of repetitions

Muscle Activation

Primary
Triceps

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes content is coming soon.

About the Barbell Seated French Press

The Barbell Seated French 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.