What To Know
- The dumbbell shoulder press is similar to the barbell shoulder press, but it is performed with dumbbells instead of a barbell.
- The dumbbell shoulder press works the obliques to a greater degree than the barbell shoulder press.
- The overhead press is a variation of the shoulder press that is performed with the barbell held overhead.
The shoulder press is a popular exercise for building shoulder strength and size. However, many people wonder whether it also works the obliques, the muscles on the sides of the waist.
The answer is yes, the shoulder press does work the obliques. However, the extent to which it does so depends on the variation of the exercise you are performing.
Types of Shoulder Press Variations
There are several different variations of the shoulder press, each of which targets the obliques to a different degree.
1. Barbell Shoulder Press
The barbell shoulder press is the most common variation of the exercise. It is performed by holding a barbell in front of the shoulders, with the hands shoulder-width apart. The barbell is then pressed overhead until the arms are fully extended.
The barbell shoulder press works the obliques to a moderate degree. This is because the movement requires the obliques to stabilize the torso and prevent the body from rotating.
2. Dumbbell Shoulder Press
The dumbbell shoulder press is similar to the barbell shoulder press, but it is performed with dumbbells instead of a barbell. This variation of the exercise allows for a greater range of motion, which can help to target the obliques more effectively.
The dumbbell shoulder press works the obliques to a greater degree than the barbell shoulder press. This is because the dumbbells allow for more lateral movement, which engages the obliques more.
3. Overhead Press
The overhead press is a variation of the shoulder press that is performed with the barbell held overhead. This variation of the exercise is more challenging than the barbell shoulder press and requires more stability from the obliques.
The overhead press works the obliques to a high degree. This is because the movement requires the obliques to stabilize the torso and prevent the body from rotating.
Benefits of Working the Obliques
There are several benefits to working the obliques, including:
- Improved posture
- Reduced risk of back pain
- Enhanced athletic performance
- More defined waistline
How to Incorporate the Shoulder Press into Your Workout
The shoulder press is a versatile exercise that can be incorporated into a variety of workouts. It can be performed as a standalone exercise or as part of a circuit.
If you are new to the shoulder press, start with a weight that is challenging but allows you to maintain good form. As you get stronger, you can gradually increase the weight.
Recommendations: The Shoulder Press and the Obliques
The shoulder press is a compound exercise that works the shoulders, triceps, and obliques. The extent to which it works the obliques depends on the variation of the exercise you are performing.
If you are looking to target the obliques, the dumbbell shoulder press and overhead press are two good options. These variations of the exercise allow for a greater range of motion, which can help to engage the obliques more effectively.
What People Want to Know
1. Does the shoulder press work the lower abs?
The shoulder press does not directly work the lower abs. However, it can help to strengthen the core, which can indirectly benefit the lower abs.
2. Is the shoulder press a good exercise for beginners?
The shoulder press is a relatively safe and easy exercise to learn. It is a good choice for beginners who are looking to build shoulder strength and size.
3. How often should I do the shoulder press?
The shoulder press can be performed 2-3 times per week. If you are new to the exercise, start with a light weight and gradually increase the weight as you get stronger.
