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Exercise Guide

How to do barbell seated behind the neck press

Master the setup, range of motion, and tempo for safer, more effective reps.

The barbell seated behind the neck press is an advanced shoulder exercise that emphasizes the lateral and posterior deltoids. By pressing from behind the head, you change the recruitment pattern of the shoulder muscles compared to a standard front press. It requires good shoulder mobility and stability, making it a potent tool for experienced lifters looking to broaden their shoulders and enhance overhead strength.

Stats

TIER
1
DIFFICULTY
Intermediate to Advanced
EQUIPMENT
Barbell, Bench
TARGET MUSCLES
Front Shoulder, Rear Shoulder, Lateral Shoulder, Triceps

Instructions for Proper Form

Setup:

  1. Bench and Barbell: Sit upright on a bench with back support and a barbell racked behind your head. Adjust the rack height so you can comfortably unrack the barbell.
  2. Grip: Place your hands on the barbell with a wider than shoulder-width grip.
  3. Unrack the Barbell: Slightly lean forward and lift the barbell off the rack, bringing it to rest on your upper traps (the muscles at the base of your neck).

The Lift:

  1. Press Upward: Inhale, brace your core, and press the barbell straight up overhead until your arms are fully extended.
  2. Lockout: Pause briefly at the top, ensuring your elbows are not hyperextended.
  3. Lower with Control: Exhale and slowly lower the barbell back down to the starting position, keeping it under control and maintaining a slight bend in your elbows.

Tips:

  • Head Position: Keep your head neutral and avoid looking up or down during the movement.
  • Torso Angle: Maintain an upright torso throughout the exercise.
  • Shoulder Mobility: Ensure you have adequate shoulder mobility before attempting this exercise with weight.

Important Note: This exercise can be potentially stressful on the shoulders. If you experience any discomfort, stop and consult a qualified professional.

Common mistakes: Bringing the bar too low which stresses the rotator cuffs and poking the head forward excessively.

Alternatives

Cable

cable front raise

Front ShoulderLateral Shoulder
Barbell

barbell overhead press

Front ShoulderLateral Shoulder+2
Dumbbell

dumbbell standing alternate press

Front ShoulderRear Shoulder+2
Barbell

barbell seated behind the neck press

Front ShoulderRear Shoulder+2
Dumbbell

dumbbell standing overhead press

Front ShoulderRear Shoulder+2
Bench

barbell seated overhead press

Front ShoulderLateral Shoulder+2
Bench

dumbbell seated press

Front ShoulderRear Shoulder+2
Dumbbell

dumbbell standing alternate raise

Front ShoulderLateral Shoulder
Bench

dumbbell incline y raise

Front ShoulderLateral Shoulder
Seated Shoulder Press Machine

machine hammer grip shoulder press

Front ShoulderLateral Shoulder+2
Bench

dumbbell seated alternate shoulder press

Front ShoulderRear Shoulder+2
Seated Shoulder Press Machine

machine seated shoulder press

Front ShoulderLateral Shoulder+2
Kettlebell

kettlebell strict press

Front ShoulderLateral Shoulder+2
Barbell

barbell front raise

Front ShoulderLateral Shoulder
Kettlebell

kettlebell upright row

Front ShoulderLateral Shoulder+1
None

pike push-up

Front ShoulderLateral Shoulder+2
Resistance Band

resistance band overhead press

Front ShoulderRear Shoulder+2
Dumbbell

dumbbell push press

Front ShoulderRear Shoulder+2
Bench

dumbbell arnold press

Front ShoulderRear Shoulder+2
Smith Machine

smit-machine seated shoulder press

Front ShoulderLateral Shoulder+2
Smith Machine

smit-machine standing shoulder press

Front ShoulderLateral Shoulder+2