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Last updated February 2, 2026
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shoulders
Shoulder Press - Reverse (Machine: Plate Loaded)
Sit facing the pad. Press the weight overhead. This angle changes the emphasis on the front delts and upper chest slightly.
Quick facts
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- 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
leverage machine
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.
- Step 1Setup
- Adjust the seat height of the plate-loaded shoulder press machine so that the handles are at shoulder level when you sit down.
- Sit down on the machine with your back against the pad and feet flat on the floor.
- Step 2Load the Plates
- Add the appropriate weight plates to the machine according to your fitness level.
- Ensure that the plates are securely fastened and balanced on both sides.
- Step 3Position Your Hands
- Grasp the handles with an overhand grip, ensuring your hands are shoulder-width apart.
- Keep your elbows bent and positioned below your wrists.
- Step 4Engage Your Core
- Sit up straight with your back pressed against the pad and engage your core muscles.
- Keep your feet flat on the ground and maintain a stable base.
- Step 5Press the Handles
- Push the handles upward until your arms are fully extended, but do not lock your elbows.
- Exhale as you press the handles up, focusing on using your shoulder muscles.
- Step 6Lower the Handles
- Slowly lower the handles back to the starting position, keeping control of the movement.
- Inhale as you lower the handles, ensuring your elbows remain slightly bent.
- Step 7Repeat
- Perform the desired number of repetitions, maintaining proper form throughout each rep.
- Focus on a smooth and controlled motion during both the pressing and lowering phases.
- Step 8Finish the Exercise
- After completing your reps, carefully put the handles back to the starting position.
- Stand up from the machine and ensure you are stable before walking away.