Bodyweight Standing Military-Press
Mimic a military press anywhere, anytime! Strengthen & tone shoulders using only your bodyweight.
The Bodyweight Standing Military-Press mainly works the shoulders, with help from the triceps and traps. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.
Bodyweight Standing Military-Press Muscles Worked
Primary
Front Shoulder (anterior deltoid)
Secondary
Triceps (triceps brachii); Upper Traps (trapezius, upper fibers)
Bodyweight Standing Military-Press Variations and Alternatives
How to do the Bodyweight Standing Military-Press
Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, and your arms raised with elbows bent, so your hands are near ear level; palms facing forward as if you were preparing to press a barbell overhead. This is your starting position.
Engage your core and keep your body rigid.
Simulate the pressing movement, extending your arms upwards, without clasping any weight, until they are fully extended overhead.
Pause at the top of the motion, squeezing your shoulder muscles.
Lower your hands back down to the starting position near ear level while maintaining control and tension in your shoulders and arms as shown in the images.
Repeat for the desired number of repetitions and sets, ensuring to keep the movement controlled and using a full range of motion.
Note: This exercise simulates a military press movement without the use of weights. It focuses on the contraction and strengthening of the shoulder muscles through a full range of motion.
---
Bodyweight Standing Military-Press FAQs
What muscles does the Bodyweight Standing Military-Press work?
The Bodyweight Standing Military-Press mainly works the shoulders, with help from the triceps and traps. The main muscles are the anterior deltoid.
What equipment do you need for the Bodyweight Standing Military-Press?
None. The Bodyweight Standing Military-Press is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.
What workout day should the Bodyweight Standing Military-Press go on?
It belongs on push day in a push/pull/legs routine.
What are some Bodyweight Standing Military-Press variations and alternatives?
Similar exercises include the Barbell Standing Close-Grip Military-Press, Barbell Standing Military-Press, Barbell Standing Wide Military-Press and Bodyweight Overhead Squat Press.
Training calculators
Work out the numbers behind your training before your next session.





