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Last updated February 2, 2026
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shoulders

Military Press (Machine)

Adjust the seat so the handles are at shoulder level. Press straight up without arching your lower back. Control the descent carefully.

Quick facts

Difficulty
Easy
Mechanic
Compound
Force
Push
Type
Strength
Injury Risk
Low
Hypertrophy
Very High
Calorie Burn
Medium

Muscle focus

Primary and secondary muscle groups targeted by this movement.

Primary

front shoulders

Secondary

triceps

Equipment & setup

What you need and how to position yourself before starting.

Equipment

weight machines / selectorized

Movement pattern

Bilateral

Posture

Seated

Tracking parameters

repsweight

Step-by-step instructions

Follow these cues to master proper technique and stay safe through every rep.

  1. Step 1Setup
    • Adjust the seat height of the machine so that the handles are at shoulder level when you sit down.
    • Sit down with your back against the pad and your feet flat on the floor, ensuring a comfortable position.
  2. Step 2Grip the Handles
    • Reach up and grasp the handles with an overhand grip, positioning your hands slightly wider than shoulder-width apart.
    • Ensure your wrists are straight and aligned with your forearms.
  3. Step 3Position Your Body
    • Engage your core and keep your back pressed against the pad throughout the exercise.
    • Keep your feet firmly planted on the ground and your elbows bent at about a 90-degree angle.
  4. Step 4Press the Handles
    • Push the handles upward in a controlled manner until your arms are fully extended overhead.
    • Avoid locking your elbows at the top of the movement.
  5. Step 5Lower the Handles
    • Slowly lower the handles back to the starting position, keeping your movements controlled.
    • Ensure that your elbows remain slightly bent as you lower the handles.
  6. Step 6Repeat
    • Repeat the pressing and lowering motion for the desired number of repetitions, maintaining proper form throughout.
  7. Step 7Finish the Exercise
    • After completing your reps, carefully return the handles to the starting position.
    • Stand up slowly, ensuring you maintain balance, and exit the machine safely.
Version 1 · Created November 12, 2025