Arnold Press Muscles worked
• Mainly: Deltoids (anterior, lateral and posterior)
• Secondarily: Triceps, trapezius, trunk stabilizing muscles
What is the Arnold Press?
The Arnold Press is a variation of the military press, invented by Arnold Schwarzenegger, which provides a complete shoulder workout by adding arm rotation during the lift. This targets all three portions of the deltoid (anterior, lateral, and posterior) and improves shoulder mobility and strength.
Performing the exercise
1. Starting position
o Sit on a bench with an inclined back or stand with your feet shoulder-width apart.
o Hold a dumbbell in each hand, palms facing you (supinated grip), elbows bent in front of your torso.
2. Movement
o Push the dumbbells upward, turning your palms outward until they are facing forward at the top of the movement.
o Stop the movement when the arms are extended above the head.
o Slowly lower yourself back down, reversing the rotation, to return to the initial position (palms facing you).
3. Breathing
o Inhale as you lower the dumbbells.o Exhale as you push up.4. Repetitions and Setso 10 to 12 repetitions.
o 3 to 4 sets, maintaining a fluid and controlled movement.
Tips and mistakes to avoid
- Don't swing your body, engage your core to stay stable.
- Don't lower your elbows too low, stop at chest level.
- Keep a controlled pace, avoid pushing with momentum.
- Don't load too heavy, focus on technique to avoid strain on the shoulders.
Why integrate this exercise?
The Arnold Press is one of the best exercises for working the entire shoulder area, adding rotation that activates all the deltoid muscles. It's ideal for developing broad, defined shoulders while improving mobility and strength.