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Exercises

Behind Neck Press

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Historical reference: its only source is the original reference manual, and some of it may be out of date. Not used for AI answers until re-sourced.

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Behind-the-neck overhead press for the anterior deltoid — explicitly NOT recommended because it involves too much external rotation.

Detail

The behind-neck press primarily works the anterior deltoid (secondary: serratus anterior, triceps). It is marked "(Not Recommended)" on the exercise checklist. The press-behind-neck exercise is not recommended as it involves too much external rotation. Performed with a barbell, Smith machine, or Cybex.

Key facts

  • Primary: Anterior Deltoid; Secondary: Serratus Anterior, Triceps.
  • Not recommended — involves excessive external rotation of the shoulder.

Connections

Sources

Historical reference · reference manual (page cited)
p.272p.276p.460
Cited authorities in source: none specified for this entry.

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Educational content only — not medical advice. Always consult a qualified professional for individualized guidance, especially around injury, pregnancy, or medical conditions.

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Atlas Connections

Anterior Deltoid
The front deltoid head; produces forward flexion, horizontal adduction, and internal rotation — primarily a pressing muscle.
External Rotation
Rotation with the axis of the bone turning away from the body (e.g., the humerus turned outward).
Serratus Anterior
The muscle along the rib cage that pulls the scapula forward and around the chest wall (protraction) and helps rotate it upward, acting as a stabilizer in most pressing movements.
Triceps Brachii
The three-headed elbow extensor (long, medial, lateral heads); the long head also assists shoulder extension.
Strict Overhead Press (Military Press)Closely related
Stand tall, brace, and press the bar from your collarbones to straight arms overhead with no leg drive, moving your head out of the way and back under the bar. The front deltoid leads, the side deltoid, triceps and the muscles that rotate the shoulder blade upward help, and your trunk holds you rigid.
Intensity
The amount of weight (resistance) lifted — also shaped by speed, reps, sets, rest interval, and workout duration.
Behind-the-Neck Press Not Recommended
The behind-the-neck (press behind neck) shoulder press is not recommended because it involves too much external rotation of the shoulder — the same core risk mechanism as behind-neck lat pulldown, since both are the same underlying press/pull pattern taken to a riskier angle, not a separate hazard each.