Dismiss Modal

Management

Shoulder Exercises: Shoulder Press

Choose a preferred language

This exercise stretches and strengthens your shoulders. Before starting, read through all the instructions. Ask your physical therapist to show you how to do the exercise, if needed. During the exercise, breathe normally and use smooth movements. Stop if you feel any pain. If pain persists, call your health care provider.

  1. Hold a ____ pound weight in each hand. Raise your elbows to shoulder level, palms facing forward, with your arms to the side and slightly forward. Ask your physical therapist how much weight to use.

  2. Raise one arm up until it’s almost straight. Hold for a second. Lower the weight, extending the other arm up.

  3. Repeat ____ times with each arm. Do ____ sets ____ times a day.

Man doing shoulder press with hand weights.


Caution

If you have shoulder problems, talk with your provider before doing this exercise. Keep your head and body still during the exercise. Only your arms should move.

© 2000-2025 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.

Find the right providers for your needs.

CalOptima Health works with thousands of Orange County providers, including doctors, specialists, health networks, medical groups and more.

Find a Doctor

See Member Health Rewards

CalOptima Health offers health rewards to eligible CalOptima Health members who take an active role in their well-being!

View available rewards
Related Articles
Read article
Orthopedics
Leg and Knee Exercises: Leg Lunge

This exercise helps stretch and strengthen your knee.

Read article
Orthopedics
Foot and Ankle Exercises: Single-Leg Heel Raise

Learn how to do a single-leg heel raise to stretch and strengthen your feet and ankles.

Read article
Orthopedics
Leg and Knee Exercises: Lateral Step-Downs

Step-up exercises help stretch and strengthen your knee. Learn how to do this exercise.

Read article
Orthopedics
Hand and Wrist Mobility Exercises: Wrist Rotations

Learn this exercise to stretch your hand and wrist.