Difficulty level: Novice
Target Muscle: Shoulders
Equipment: Dumbbell
Instructions for proper form
Start in a half kneeling position with one knee on the ground and the other foot flat on the floor. Hold a dumbbell in each hand with a neutral grip, palms facing each other. Engage your core for stability and maintain an upright torso. While keeping your elbow close to your body, press one dumbbell overhead while simultaneously lowering the opposite dumbbell to shoulder level. Alternate between the two arms in a seesaw motion, ensuring that your hips remain stable and your back is straight throughout the movement.
Common mistakes to avoid
Avoid arching your back or leaning to one side during the press. Do not allow your knee to extend over your toes in the kneeling position, and ensure both dumbbells move in a controlled manner to avoid swinging.
Benefits
Specific benefits of the exercise
This exercise enhances shoulder stability and strength due to the engagement of core muscles while maintaining balance in a half kneeling position. It emphasizes the anterior deltoids while promoting unilateral strength and coordination.
Expected results and timeframe
With consistent practice, you can expect improved shoulder definition and stability within 4-6 weeks, along with enhanced core stability and coordination..
Who this exercise is best for
This exercise is ideal for novice lifters looking to strengthen their shoulders while developing unilateral strength, athletes aiming for functional fitness, and individuals recovering from shoulder injuries under guidance.
Scientific studies supporting its effectiveness
Research supports that exercises targeting the anterior deltoids effectively enhance shoulder strength and stability. Unilateral movements, like the seesaw press, have been shown to improve muscular coordination and balance in upper body training.
Variations
Beginner modifications
Use lighter dumbbells or a single dumbbell to start. You can also perform the exercise in a seated position to reduce the demand on the lower body and core.
Advanced progressions
To progress, increase the weight of the dumbbells or incorporate a stability challenge such as performing the exercise on a balance pad.
Integrations
Complementary exercises
Incorporate push-ups, lateral raises, or planks to complement shoulder strength and stability training.
Super set recommendations
Super set this exercise with dumbbell rows or tricep extensions to effectively work opposing muscle groups and increase overall upper body strength.
Sample workout routines
A potential routine could include: 1. Double Dumbbell Half Kneeling Seesaw Overhead Press – 3 sets of 10-12 reps, 2. Dumbbell Rows – 3 sets of 10-12 reps, 3. Plank – 3 sets of 30 seconds.
Exercise combinations
Combine with exercises like dumbbell bench presses and shoulder flies to create a comprehensive upper body workout.
Best time to do this exercise in your workout
Perform this exercise in the upper body section of your workout routine after warming up, preferably before heavy compound lifts to ensure maximum energy and focus.