EZ-bar Seated Close grip Shoulder Press
EZ-bar Seated Close grip Shoulder Press demonstration
Watch the demo so setup and tempo are clear before you follow the step-by-step cues.

Performing the: A Step-by-Step Tutorial EZ-bar Seated Close grip Shoulder Press
Work through the cues in order so setup, bracing, and reps stay consistent before you add load.
- Lift the bar overhead, extending your arms fully but without locking your elbows; this is your starting position.
- Slowly lower the bar down to your chest level while keeping your elbows close to your body.
- Push the bar back up to the starting position, using your shoulder muscles to drive the movement.
- Repeat the movement for your desired number of repetitions, maintaining control of the bar throughout the exercise.
Tips for Performing EZ-bar Seated Close grip Shoulder Press
Form reminders that keep range of motion and control in check once the basic pattern feels stable.
- **Controlled Movement**: Push the bar upward until your arms are fully extended. Take care not to lock your elbows or jerk the weight up by using your body momentum, as this can lead to elbow strain or shoulder injuries. The movement should be slow and controlled.
- **Breathing Technique**: Breathe in as you lower the bar slowly back down to the starting position, and breathe out as you push the bar up. This helps maintain your energy levels and ensures that your muscles receive enough oxygen.
- **Avoid Overloading**: Don't load too much weight onto the bar at the start. Begin
Can beginners do the EZ-bar Seated Close grip Shoulder Press?
A short framing note on whether this pattern suits newer lifters before you load it heavily.
Yes, beginners can do the EZ-bar Seated Close grip Shoulder Press exercise. However, it's important to start with a light weight to ensure proper form and prevent injury. It's also beneficial to have a trainer or experienced individual supervise the exercise to make sure it's being done correctly. Gradually increasing the weight as strength and technique improve is a good strategy. Always remember that safety should be the first priority in any exercise routine.
What are common variations of the EZ-bar Seated Close grip Shoulder Press?
Compare these progressions when the main pattern is solid or you need a different stimulus with similar equipment.
- Standing EZ-bar Shoulder Press: Instead of sitting, this variation involves standing, which engages your core muscles more and can help improve balance and stability.
- Behind The Neck EZ-bar Shoulder Press: This variation involves pressing the EZ-bar from behind the neck, which can target different parts of the shoulder muscles.
- Arnold Press: Named after Arnold Schwarzenegger, this variation involves rotating the palms from facing towards you at the bottom of the movement to facing forward at the top, stimulating the shoulder muscles differently.
- Military Press: This variation is performed standing with the feet together (mimicking a military 'at attention' stance), focusing more on the anterior (front) deltoids and requiring more core stability.



