Barbell Behind-Back Push-Press
Explosive strength! The Barbell Behind-Back Push-Press builds power and shoulder stability. Experienced lifters only!
The Barbell Behind-Back Push-Press is a compound exercise that mainly works the quads and triceps, with help from the glutes & hips and traps. You'll need: barbell and weight plates.
Required Equipment


Barbell Behind-Back Push-Press Muscles Worked
Primary
Quads (quadriceps femoris); Triceps (triceps brachii)
Secondary
Glutes (gluteus maximus); Mid Traps (trapezius, middle fibers)
Barbell Behind-Back Push-Press Variations and Alternatives
How to do the Barbell Behind-Back Push-Press
1. Load a barbell with an appropriate weight and place it on a rack at about lower chest height.
2. Stand facing away from the bar, and position it behind your neck across your traps and shoulders. Use an overhand grip slightly wider than shoulder-width apart.
3. Unrack the barbell by straightening your legs and stand upright while keeping your core tight and chest up.
4. Position your feet shoulder-width apart, and keep a slight bend in your knees.
5. Bend your knees and hips to lower into a slight dip position, then explosively extend your legs and hips.
6. As you reach full extension, use the momentum to help press the barbell overhead, fully extending your arms.
7. Once the barbell is overhead, stabilize your position, then slowly lower the bar back to the start position behind your neck.
8. Perform the desired number of reps maintaining proper form.
Ensure you have a clear path and enough space to safely perform the exercise. It may help to have a spotter, especially when first attempting this exercise or when adding more weight. Since this exercise involves a complex movement and weight is being lifted overhead, it's important to keep proper form throughout to avoid injuries.
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Barbell Behind-Back Push-Press FAQs
What muscles does the Barbell Behind-Back Push-Press work?
The Barbell Behind-Back Push-Press mainly works the quads and triceps, with help from the glutes & hips and traps. The main muscles are the quadriceps femoris and triceps brachii.
What equipment do you need for the Barbell Behind-Back Push-Press?
Barbell and weight plates.
Is the Barbell Behind-Back Push-Press a compound exercise?
Yes. It's a compound movement, meaning it trains several muscle groups at once rather than isolating one.
What workout day should the Barbell Behind-Back Push-Press go on?
It belongs on push day in a push/pull/legs routine.
What are some Barbell Behind-Back Push-Press variations and alternatives?
Similar exercises include the Barbell Reverse-Grip Overhead Press, Barbell Clean & Press, Split Jerk and Barbell Seated Overhead Behind-Neck Press.
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