Posted by u/zone2_nerd·3 months ago·Form Check

Behind the Neck Press: Is It Dangerous or Fine?

TL;DR: Curious if the behind-the-neck press is safe to include in a PPL routine or if it's too risky for shoulder health.

I've been experimenting with different shoulder exercises lately, and I keep coming across the behind-the-neck press. Some lifters swear by it for hitting those deltoids and upper traps, while others warn about the potential for injury, especially in the rotator cuff area.

I'm really curious about what the general consensus is within this community. I've read articles that mention how it can lead to shoulder impingement and strain if your form isn't perfect, which makes me a bit hesitant to include it in my routine. That said, I also see lifters with solid strength and mobility using it effectively.

So, for those of you who incorporate the behind-the-neck press into your programming, do you find it beneficial? Have you encountered any issues or injuries? I'm currently running a PPL routine and am trying to decide whether to give it a shot or stick to the traditional press variations. Any thoughts would be appreciated

8 comments

Comments

u/home_gym_hustler·2 months ago

I think it depends on your individual shoulder mobility. I have a buddy who can do it perfectly and swears by it, but I've also seen others get hurt. Just make sure to warm up properly and listen to your body!

u/strongmommy22·3 months ago

As a mom juggling fitness and kids, I prefer sticking to safe moves. The risk of injury just isn't worth it for me. There are plenty of effective shoulder exercises that won't put you at risk, trust me on this

u/briankoel·3 months ago

Honestly, i've tried the behind-the-neck press, and I found it didn't really do much for my gains. The risk of shoulder impingement is real, especially if you're not hyper-mobile. I would stick with traditional presses that allow for better stability and safety.

u/squat_and_sip·2 months ago

I get the appeal of hitting those delts in a different way, but my shoulder feels way better with overhead presses. Yoga really helped my mobility, and I suggest focusing on that before trying something potentially risky like the behind-the-neck press.

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u/meat_and_lifts·3 months ago

Facts. Unless you're aiming to become a shoulder specialist, I'd avoid the behind-the-neck press. Just stick to what works for you and what you can control. Better safe than sorry!

u/stayingactive20·3 months ago

100%. I'm all about that shoulder health, and behind-the-neck presses don't fit that bill for me. There's so many variations of the overhead press that can get you the same results with less risk.

u/runningfromcardio·3 months ago

Lmao, I tried that once and felt like my shoulders were about to explode. Not worth the risk if you ask me. I'd stick to the front presses. At least you know you won't leave the gym in pain.

u/creatine_supremacy·3 months ago

This isn't just about mobility, though. Studies show a higher incidence of rotator cuff injuries with behind-the-neck variations. If you're already in a PPL routine, just focus on safe alternatives. Like, your shoulders will thank you later.