Drew’s “Exercises You Shouldn’t Do” – Part 2 (Military Press) | Day #27 WellFit 365

The Behind-The-Neck Shoulder Press or “Military Press”

This is another shoulder exercise that you really should not do in most cases.

With the exception of experienced body builders, most people do not need to put their shoulder joints at risk with this exercise.

So Why Is The Military Press An Exercise You Should Try To Avoid?

– Like the upright row, this is also an exercise that is hugely popular due to its ability to stimulate lots of muscle activity in the delts.

– There is no doubt that this is a good muscle building exercise and it stimulates the anterior deltoids greatly, but even though it is good for the muscles, it is terrible for your shoulder joints.

– Your shoulders are in their most stable position when they are close to your body and in neutral rotation. The behind the head or military press requires full external and horizontal abduction, which is at the very end of the shoulder joints ROM.

– This is a dangerous position for the shoulder joint to be loaded with large weights and to be worked for long sets.

– The shoulder joint is much more stable and safe if the presses are done in front of the head

– Again not everyone will have a problem with this exercise but if you are prone to shoulder problems then definitely steer clear of these.