Seated Shoulder Press (Cable)
A compound shoulder exercise using cable machines where you press handles upward and forward while seated to develop shoulder strength and stability.
Instructions
- Adjust the cable machine to have handles at approximately ear or shoulder height.
- Sit upright on a bench facing the cable towers with feet firmly on the floor.
- Grasp both handles with a neutral grip (palms facing inward) at shoulder height.
- Keep your core engaged and back against the bench for support.
- Press the handles upward and slightly forward, extending through the elbows.
- At the top position, your arms should be mostly extended without locking out the elbows.
- 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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