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Exercise Guide
How to do machine hammer grip shoulder press
Master the setup, range of motion, and tempo for safer, more effective reps.
The machine hammer grip shoulder press utilizes a neutral hand position to target the anterior and medial deltoids while being gentler on the shoulder joints. The fixed path of the machine provides excellent stability, allowing lifters to focus on muscle contraction and heavy resistance. This variation is particularly beneficial for those with shoulder impingement issues or those looking to add variety.
Stats
TIER
2
DIFFICULTY
Untrained to Advanced
EQUIPMENT
Seated Shoulder Press Machine
TARGET MUSCLES
Front Shoulder, Lateral Shoulder, Rear Shoulder, Triceps
Instructions for Proper Form
Setup:
- Machine Adjustment: Adjust the seat height so your shoulders are aligned with the handles and your elbows are at a 90-degree angle when your hands are on the handles. Select the desired weight.
- Grip: Grasp the handles with a hammer grip (palms facing each other). Your forearms should be vertical when your arms are bent.
- Starting Position: Sit with your back against the backrest, chest up, and core engaged.
The Lift:
- Press Upward: Exhale and press the handles upward, extending your arms until they are almost straight but not locked out.
- Hold at the Top: Briefly pause at the top, feeling the contraction in your shoulders and triceps.
- Controlled Lowering: Inhale and slowly lower the handles back to the starting position, resisting the weight as it comes down.
Tips:
- Elbow Position: Keep your elbows slightly in front of your body as you press upwards.
- Head and Neck: Maintain a neutral head and neck position throughout the movement.
- Full Range of Motion: Extend your arms almost fully at the top, but avoid locking out your elbows.
- Breathing: Exhale as you press the handles up, inhale as you lower them.
Common mistakes: Pressing the head forward, locking the elbows aggressively, and not sitting fully against the backrest.
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