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Last updated February 2, 2026
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shoulders

Shoulder Press - Seated (Machine)

Press the handles overhead until your arms are fully extended. Lower slowly until the handles are at ear level. Keep your head pressed back against the pad.

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.
    • Sit down on the machine with your back against the pad and feet flat on the floor.
  2. Step 2Adjust the Machine
    • Ensure that the weight is set to a manageable level for your strength.
    • Check that the machine is properly adjusted to fit your body size.
  3. Step 3Grip the Handles
    • Grab the handles with an overhand grip, keeping your hands shoulder-width apart.
    • Ensure your wrists are straight and aligned with your forearms.
  4. Step 4Position Your Body
    • Sit up straight with your shoulders back and core engaged.
    • Keep your feet flat on the ground and your back pressed against the seat.
  5. Step 5Press the Handles
    • Push the handles upward until your arms are fully extended, but do not lock your elbows.
    • Exhale as you press up, maintaining control of the movement.
  6. Step 6Lower the Handles
    • Slowly lower the handles back to the starting position, keeping your elbows slightly bent.
    • Inhale as you lower the handles, maintaining control throughout the movement.
  7. Step 7Repeat
    • Continue to press and lower the handles for the desired number of repetitions.
    • Focus on maintaining good form with each rep.
  8. Step 8Finish the Exercise
    • After completing your reps, carefully lower the handles to the starting position.
    • Stand up from the machine and ensure you are stable before walking away.
Version 1 · Created November 12, 2025