Seated Shoulder Press (Cable)

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

A compound shoulder exercise using cable machines where you press handles upward and forward while seated to develop shoulder strength and stability.

Instructions

  1. Adjust the cable machine to have handles at approximately ear or shoulder height.
  2. Sit upright on a bench facing the cable towers with feet firmly on the floor.
  3. Grasp both handles with a neutral grip (palms facing inward) at shoulder height.
  4. Keep your core engaged and back against the bench for support.
  5. Press the handles upward and slightly forward, extending through the elbows.
  6. At the top position, your arms should be mostly extended without locking out the elbows.
  7. Lower the handles back to shoulder height in a controlled manner.

Tips

  • The cable provides resistance from a different angle than a dumbbell press
  • Maintain an upright posture and avoid arching your lower back excessively
  • The handles can move independently which increases stability demands
  • Control the descent to maximize time under tension
  • Do not allow the elbows to flare excessively wide during the press

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 17.5 kg 10 kg
Build muscle 3 10 reps 15 kg 7.5 kg
Build endurance 3 14 reps 12.5 kg 5 kg

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