Difficulty level: Beginner
Target Muscle: Shoulders
Equipment: Dumbbell
Instructions for proper form
1. Start in a tall kneeling position with your knees shoulder-width apart. 2. Hold a dumbbell in each hand at shoulder height, with your palms facing you (neutral grip). 3. Engage your core and maintain a straight back. 4. As you press the dumbbells overhead, rotate your palms to face forward (pronated grip) while extending your arms fully. 5. Slowly lower the dumbbells back to the starting position while rotating your palms back to the initial position. 6. Keep your movements controlled and avoid arching your back during the press.
Common mistakes to avoid
1. Arching the lower back during the lift. 2. Pressing the weights too far behind your head. 3. Allowing the elbows to flare out excessively. 4. Using momentum instead of muscle strength to lift the weights. 5. Not maintaining a stable core throughout the movement.
Benefits
Specific benefits of the exercise
This exercise specifically targets the anterior deltoids while also activating the triceps and upper pectoral muscles. It develops shoulder stability and mobility through a full range of motion.
Expected results and timeframe
With consistent practice, you can expect increased shoulder strength and stability within 4-6 weeks, helping improve overall upper body strength and aesthetics..
Who this exercise is best for
This exercise is best for beginners seeking to enhance shoulder strength and stability, individuals recovering from shoulder injuries, and anyone looking to improve their upper body physique.
Scientific studies supporting its effectiveness
Numerous studies have shown that compound movements such as the Arnold press effectively engage multiple muscle groups, contributing to balanced shoulder development and improved functional strength.
Variations
Beginner modifications
1. Perform the exercise seated on a bench to provide additional stability. 2. Use lighter weights to ensure proper form and control. 3. Perform the movement without weights (body weight) to focus on form before adding resistance.
Advanced progressions
1. Add an incline or decline to the kneeling position to increase the challenge. 2. Incorporate a single-arm press variation to enhance stability and isolation of the muscles.
Integrations
Complementary exercises
1. Lateral raises to target the lateral deltoid. 2. Push-ups for overall upper body strength. 3. Plank holds for core stability.
Super set recommendations
Super set with lateral raises: Perform a set of double dumbbell tall kneeling Arnold presses followed immediately by lateral raises to maximize shoulder engagement.
Sample workout routines
1. Warm-up: 5-10 minutes of light cardio. 2. Double Dumbbell Tall Kneeling Arnold Press – 3 sets of 10-12 reps. 3. Lateral Raises – 3 sets of 12-15 reps. 4. Push-ups – 3 sets of 8-10 reps. 5. Cool down with shoulder stretches.
Exercise combinations
Combine this exercise with push-ups and bent-over rows for a comprehensive upper body workout that targets multiple muscle groups.
Best time to do this exercise in your workout
This exercise is best performed during the strength training portion of your workout, ideally after a proper warm-up and before higher intensity exercises involving shoulder movements.