Barbell Behind-the-Neck Push Press
Also known as: BB Behind-the-Neck Push Press, Behind-the-Neck Push Press, Behind-the-Head Push Press, Barbell Behind-the-Head Push Press
Body region
Muscles
Main
Helps
Holds
Equipment
Technique
- Set the bar on a rack at upper-back height and duck under it, resting it on the traps with a wide grip, elbows pointing down.
- Step back with feet hip-width apart, chest up and head neutral, looking straight ahead.
- Dip a few inches by bending the knees, keeping the torso upright.
- Drive up with the legs and press the bar straight up to lockout behind the head.
- Lower the bar with control to the traps and reset.
Cues
- Only do this with good shoulder mobility; if it hurts, stop and use a front press instead.
- Dip and drive vertically and keep the head neutral.
- Keep your wrists straight and the bar on the traps.
Common mistakes
- Letting the bar crash down onto the neck instead of lowering it softly to the traps.
- Using a grip that is too narrow.
- Pushing the head far forward or leaning back.
- Starting with a heavy load before practising with an empty bar.