Floor Press (Barbell)
A barbell pressing movement performed while lying on the floor, which limits range of motion and reduces shoulder strain.
Instructions
- Lie flat on the floor with knees bent and feet flat on the ground for stability.
- Hold the barbell at chest level with hands slightly wider than shoulder-width.
- Press the barbell upward until your arms are extended, without fully locking out elbows.
- Lower the barbell in a controlled manner until your elbows lightly touch the floor.
- Immediately reverse the motion and press back up.
- 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 |
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