Incline anti-gravity shoulder press
The incline anti-gravity shoulder press is an effective exercise that works the upper back and shoulder muscles. This exercise variation puts the rear delts and upper back muscles under isometric tension while dynamically training the lateral and front delts. It is a great way to increase muscular strength and size in the shoulder area while also engaging the core and upper back.
This press variation is typically done with lighter weights and moderate reps, such as 8-12 reps per set or more, as part of an upper-body or shoulder training program. It is a great way to train those muscles for increased strength and size. This exercise promotes core stability and can be used to target weak areas in the shoulder and upper back.
The incline anti-gravity shoulder press is an effective exercise to build strength and size in the shoulder and upper back muscles. The challenge of holding the weight up while engaging the core makes this exercise variation particularly beneficial. It is a great way to get the most out of your shoulder and upper back training.
Type:
Strength
Muscles Used:
Shoulders
Level:
Intermediate
Equipment:
E-Z Curl Bar
Benefits Of This Exercise
- The incline anti-gravity shoulder press is an effective exercise to build strength and size in the shoulder and upper back muscles.
- The challenge of holding the weight up while engaging the core makes this exercise variation particularly beneficial.
- It is a great way to get the most out of your shoulder and upper back training.
- Adds size and strength to the shoulders and upper back.
- Intense shoulder training even with light weight.
- Great burnout movement on shoulder day.
Step by Step Instructions For Incline anti-gravity shoulder press
- Place a bar on the ground behind the head of an incline bench.
- Lay on the bench face down.
- With a pronated grip, pick the barbell up from the floor.
- Flex the elbows, performing a reverse curl to bring the bar near your chest. This will be your starting position.
- To begin, press the barbell out in front of your head by extending your elbows.
- Keep your arms parallel to the ground throughout the movement.
- Return to the starting position.
- Repeat to complete the set.
Warm Up Tips
- Start with a light warm-up set using lighter weights to prepare your muscles for the exercise.
- Perform some shoulder rotations and arm swings to loosen up the shoulder joints and increase mobility.
- Do a few sets of reverse curls with a lighter dumbbell to warm up the biceps and forearms.
- Stretch your chest and upper back muscles by doing some doorway stretches or using a foam roller.
- Perform a few sets of push-ups or chest presses to activate the chest muscles and prepare them for the shoulder press.
- Before starting the exercise, make sure to check your form and adjust the bench and barbell position accordingly.
- Start with a lighter weight and gradually increase the weight as you feel more comfortable and warmed up.
- Focus on maintaining proper form throughout the exercise, keeping your core engaged and back straight.
- Take short breaks between sets to rest and recover, but don't let your muscles cool down completely.
- After completing the exercise, stretch your shoulders, chest, and upper back to cool down and prevent muscle tightness.
Incline anti-gravity shoulder press Safety Tips
- Start with a lighter weight and gradually increase as you become more comfortable with the exercise.
- Ensure that the barbell is securely placed on the ground behind the head of the incline bench before lying down.
- Maintain a pronated grip on the barbell throughout the exercise.
- Keep your arms parallel to the ground throughout the movement to properly engage the targeted muscles.
- Perform the exercise in a controlled manner, avoiding any jerky or sudden movements.
- Focus on maintaining proper form and technique throughout the entire exercise.
- If you experience any pain or discomfort, stop the exercise immediately and consult a healthcare professional.
- Breathe properly throughout the exercise, inhaling during the eccentric phase and exhaling during the concentric phase.
- Avoid locking out your elbows at the top of the movement to prevent unnecessary strain on the joints.
- Listen to your body and only push yourself to a comfortable level of intensity.
Incorporating Into Other Workouts
To incorporate the incline anti-gravity shoulder press into your workouts, follow these steps:
1. Set up an incline bench and place a barbell on the ground behind the head of the bench.
2. Lay face down on the bench.
3. With a pronated grip, pick up the barbell from the floor and perform a reverse curl to bring the bar near your chest. This is your starting position.
4. Begin the exercise by pressing the barbell out in front of your head, extending your elbows. Keep your arms parallel to the ground throughout the movement.
5. Return to the starting position and repeat to complete the set.
The incline anti-gravity shoulder press is an effective exercise that targets the upper back and shoulder muscles. It puts the rear delts and upper back muscles under isometric tension while dynamically training the lateral and front delts. This exercise is best performed with lighter weights and moderate reps, such as 8-12 reps per set or more.
Incorporating this exercise into your shoulder and upper back training routine can help add size and strength to those areas. It also engages the core and promotes core stability. Use this exercise as a burnout movement on shoulder day or include it as part of your regular upper-body or shoulder training program.

