Seated Cable Shoulder Press
Seated Cable Shoulder Press is a beginner-level compound in the strength category that primarily works the shoulders. It also recruits the triceps. It is performed with cable.
How to do it
- 1Adjust the weight to an appropriate amount and be seated, grasping the handles. Your upper arms should be about 90 degrees to the body, with your head and chest up. The elbows should also be bent to about 90 degrees. This will be your starting position.
- 2Begin by extending through the elbow, pressing the handles together above your head.
- 3After pausing at the top, return the handles to the starting position. Ensure that you maintain tension on the cables.
- 4You can also execute this movement with your back off the pad and alternate hands.
Muscles worked
Primary muscles in filled badges, secondary in grey. Tap for more exercises per muscle.
Tips and common mistakes
- •Keep your core braced and your spine neutral throughout the movement.
- •Add load only once you complete all reps with good form — progressive overload.
- •Press through the full range and avoid snapping the joints into lockout.
- •Prioritize full range of motion over heavy weight with partial reps.
Sets and reps
For hypertrophy: 3–4 sets × 8–12 reps with 1–2 reps in reserve (RPE 7–9) and 1–2 minutes rest. For strength: 3–5 × 4–6 with longer rest.