Lower back hyperextends to complete the press
Strict means no lean-back; the lift ends when the lower back breaks.
Overactive muscles
Erector spinaeLatissimus dorsi
Corrective work
Foam RollLats↗StretchLat stretch (kneeling overhead)↗Push · Upper Body
Military Press (Strict Overhead Press)
Coaching cues
- Barbell at collar-bone height; narrow stance — feet together or hip-width
- No leg drive; press strictly with the shoulders only
- Bar stacks directly over the midline at lockout
- The strictest form of the overhead press — no body momentum at all
Common faults 2
Bar drifts forward — not stacking over the head
Lat and thoracic restriction prevent the bar reaching true overhead.
Overactive muscles
Latissimus dorsiPec minor
Corrective work
Foam RollLats↗Foam RollThoracic spine↗StretchDoorway pec stretch↗