Shoulders shrug to complete the rep
Upper traps dominate; deltoids underloaded.
Overactive muscles
Upper trapeziusLevator scapulae
Corrective work
Foam RollUpper traps↗StretchLevator scapulae stretch↗Push · Upper Body
Machine Shoulder Press
Coaching cues
- Seat adjusted so handles start at ear level
- Press straight up — no shrugging at the top
- Lower to a full stretch at ear level; full range every rep
- Control the eccentric — machine removes the stabilization demand
Common faults 2
Back arches off the pad
Erectors assist the press; shoulder range is compromised.
Overactive muscles
Erector spinaeLatissimus dorsi
Corrective work
Foam RollLats↗StretchLat stretch (kneeling overhead)↗