Standing Palms-In Dumbbell Press

A bilateral standing dumbbell shoulder press using a neutral grip, effectively targeting the shoulders and upper chest.
Instructions
- Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, holding a dumbbell in each hand at shoulder height with a neutral grip (palms facing each other).
- Your forearms should be perpendicular to the floor with your elbows tucked slightly in front of you.
- Press both dumbbells overhead by extending your arms until they are nearly fully extended, maintaining the neutral grip throughout.
- Lower the dumbbells back down to shoulder height in a controlled manner.
- Repeat for the recommended number of repetitions.
Tips
- Maintain an upright torso and avoid excessive arching of the lower back.
- Press in a straight vertical line rather than allowing the dumbbells to drift forward.
- Keep your core engaged throughout the movement for stability.
- Breathe out as you press the weights overhead and inhale as you lower them.
- Start with a weight that allows you to maintain proper form for all repetitions.
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 | 9 kg | 5 kg |
| Build muscle | 3 | 10 reps | 8 kg | 4 kg |
| Build endurance | 3 | 14 reps | 6 kg | 3 kg |
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