Floor Press (Barbell)

Level
beginner
Force
push
Mechanic
compound
Equipment
barbell
Category
strength
Primary Muscles
Secondary Muscles

A barbell pressing movement performed while lying on the floor, which limits range of motion and reduces shoulder strain.

Instructions

  1. Lie flat on the floor with knees bent and feet flat on the ground for stability.
  2. Hold the barbell at chest level with hands slightly wider than shoulder-width.
  3. Press the barbell upward until your arms are extended, without fully locking out elbows.
  4. Lower the barbell in a controlled manner until your elbows lightly touch the floor.
  5. Immediately reverse the motion and press back up.
  6. Repeat for the prescribed number of repetitions.

Tips

  • The floor prevents excessive shoulder extension, making this shoulder-friendly
  • This variation builds pressing strength with reduced joint stress
  • Keep your feet firmly on the ground for stability during the lift
  • Maintain neutral wrist position throughout the movement
  • The reduced range of motion allows for heavier loading compared to bench press
  • This is excellent for building tricep and chest strength with minimal shoulder involvement

Recommended starting values

Sensible novice starting points for each goal, for a lifter aged 25–40. Scale down for smaller frames or older lifters. Treat the first set of any session as a discovery set.

Goal Sets Reps Weight
Male Female
Gain strength 3 7 reps 22.5 kg 12.5 kg
Build muscle 3 10 reps 20 kg 10 kg
Build endurance 3 14 reps 15 kg 7.5 kg

Alternatives

Exercises that target the same muscles with the same force and mechanic.

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Incline Bench Press - Medium Grip (Barbell)

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Wide-Grip Decline Barbell Bench Press

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