Bradford Press
The Bradford Press primarily works the Anterior Deltoid, Lateral Deltoid, Posterior Deltoid, with secondary activation of the Trapezius (Upper), Triceps (Long Head) and stabilizer support from the Rectus Abdominis, Serratus Anterior, Transverse Abdominis. It is a barbell compound exercise at advanced difficulty.
The Bradford Press is a advanced compound exercise performed with barbell, following a vertical push movement pattern. It primarily targets the Anterior Deltoid, Lateral Deltoid, Posterior Deltoid, with secondary engagement of the Trapezius (Upper), Triceps (Long Head). This is a bilateral pushing movement, meaning both sides work together to generate force.
Overhead press moving barbell back and forth behind neck and in front emphasizing shoulders.
| Equipment | Barbell |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Advanced |
| Type | Compound |
| Movement | Vertical Push |
| Force | Push |
| Laterality | Bilateral |
| Primary | Anterior Deltoid, Lateral Deltoid, Posterior Deltoid |
| Secondary | Trapezius (Upper), Triceps (Long Head) |
Muscles Worked
The Anterior Deltoid, Lateral Deltoid, and Posterior Deltoid are the primary movers, collectively driving the movement and absorbing the greatest share of the load. The Trapezius (Upper), and Triceps (Long Head) act as secondary movers, assisting the primary muscles and contributing meaningfully to the overall output. The Rectus Abdominis, Serratus Anterior, Transverse Abdominis act as stabilizers, maintaining joint position and postural alignment throughout the movement.
Primary Muscles
- Primary Muscle Anterior Deltoid (shoulders)
- Primary Muscle Lateral Deltoid (shoulders)
- Primary Muscle Posterior Deltoid (shoulders)
Secondary Muscles
- Secondary Muscle Trapezius (Upper) (back)
- Secondary Muscle Triceps (Long Head) (triceps)
Stabilizer Muscles
- Stabilizer Muscle Rectus Abdominis (core)
- Stabilizer Muscle Serratus Anterior (chest)
- Stabilizer Muscle Transverse Abdominis (core)
How to Perform
Preparation
- Stand or sit with upright posture.
- Grasp barbell with overhand grip, hands shoulder-width apart.
Execution
- Press weight overhead until arms are fully extended.
- Lower weight back to shoulder level under control.
- Repeat.
Comments
- This is an advanced exercise.
- Ensure proper form before adding load.
Tips & Common Mistakes
- Keep your core tight and avoid excessive lumbar extension to protect your lower back.
- Don't fully lock out your elbows at the top — maintain a slight bend for joint safety.
- Control the eccentric phase; lowering slowly builds more strength over time.
Programming Suggestions
Adapt your sets and reps to your training goal. This is an advanced exercise — experienced lifters can push intensity higher and use more varied rep schemes.
| Strength | 3–5 sets × 3–6 reps at 80–90% 1RM with 2–4 minutes rest. |
|---|---|
| Hypertrophy | 3–5 sets × 6–12 reps at 65–80% 1RM with 60–120 seconds rest. |
| Endurance | 2–4 sets × 15–20 reps at 50–65% 1RM with 30–60 seconds rest. |
Alternative Exercises
These exercises target the same primary muscles (Anterior Deltoid, Lateral Deltoid, Posterior Deltoid) and can be substituted based on your equipment or variation preferences.
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