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Barbell Standing Wide Military Press

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Barbell Standing Wide Military Press.

MediumFront shoulders

About this exercise

A standing overhead barbell press performed with a grip wider than shoulder width. The wide grip places greater stress on the lateral and anterior deltoids, promoting broader shoulder development alongside triceps and upper trap engagement.

How to Perform

  • Stand with feet shoulder-width apart and unrack or clean the barbell to shoulder height
  • Grip the bar wider than shoulder width, palms facing forward
  • Brace your core, squeeze your glutes, and keep your chest tall
  • Press the barbell directly overhead until both arms are fully extended
  • Pause briefly at the top, then lower the bar under control back to shoulder height
  • Repeat for the desired number of repetitions

Muscle Activation

Primary
Front shoulders
Secondary
TricepsSide shouldersMiddle chest

About the Barbell Standing Wide Military Press

The Barbell Standing Wide 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.