Military Press?

**jaym_100** · 11-12-2010, 08:51 PM

When I'm doing seated mil press should I try to keep my back straight push directly up or arch my back so I lean back a little.

**baseline_9** · 11-13-2010, 04:23 AM

U want to keep a neutral spine...

That means an arch but not a forced arch

Just a tight lower back in its neutral position

**tjax03** · 11-13-2010, 10:59 AM

Studies have shown that greater shoulder girdle stimulation results from leaning back slightly. For example if you are doing dumbbell presses, you can set the adjustable bench at one or two notches away from perpendicular to the floor. I also agree with slightly arching the back while keeping the shoulder blades pulled back and muscles tight.

**Stephen73ta** · 11-13-2010, 03:28 PM

I couldn't imagine doing db shoulder press without arching your back slightly.

**stevey_6t9** · 11-14-2010, 02:43 AM

Originally Posted by tjax03

Studies have shown that greater shoulder girdle stimulation results from leaning back slightly. For example if you are doing dumbbell presses, you can set the adjustable bench at one or two notches away from perpendicular to the floor. I also agree with slightly arching the back while keeping the shoulder blades pulled back and muscles tight.

link?

**jypoll** · 11-14-2010, 07:49 PM

yes definitely a slight arch in your back is good for military press

**tyciol** · 12-21-2011, 07:39 PM

The arch allows you to use more weight I think because of how it allows you to involve the upper (clavicular head) pectoralis major, sort of like making an incline press. I think if we are going to do this, it might be better to just get the angle by leaning back against a high incline as opposed to hyper-extending the spine. Although I guess the abs get more of a workout keeping us from falling back if we do it unsupported.