How to do a Standing Dumbbell Shoulder Press

Standing Dumbbell Shoulder Press is a variation on the more standard Shoulder Press. Like other Shoulder Press variations, this is a compound exercise that primarily targets your shoulders. By using dumbbells, you add more instability to the movement which can help recruit smaller stabilizing muscles around your shoulder. In addition, by performing this exercise while standing you add even more instability.

1. Position your feet shoulder-width apart with your knees slightly bent.
2. Grasp a dumbbell in each hand and position the weights over your shoulders in a comfortable position.
3. Engage your shoulders to press the weight over your head.
4. Hold this position for a moment at the top of the movement.
5. Slowly allow the weights to descend back to the starting position.
6. Maintain good posture by keeping your core engaged to prevent hyperextending your lower back.
7. You should feel this exercise in your shoulders.

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