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Posted by u/chickenncarrots·

Anyone else hit a wall on the overhead press? Struggling to break 185

I've been pushing my overhead press hard and just can't seem to break through that 185 barrier. It's like the weights are glued to my hands. Anyone else experience this? What did you do to finally get past that plateau? I'm looking for tips or just some relatable pain here.

37 comments

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u/squat_to_pizza·

You know what would make hitting 185 easier? A pizza reward for every PR! Lifting is like pizza, even if you don't hit the mark, you still get to enjoy the process.

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Honestly, 185 is no joke! If you're not already, try incorporating some heavy push presses or maybe some banded work for that explosive strength. It'll definitely help you break through that wall.

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u/chickenncarrots·

I've been there too, hitting 185 can feel like a solid wall. Try focusing on your form and maybe incorporate some accessory lifts to strengthen your shoulders and triceps, like close-grip bench press or shoulder raises. Also, don't forget to adjust your nutrition to support your lifts!

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u/caffeine_cutter·

Honestly, if you're not getting enough sleep or nutrition, that could be holding u back too. Make sure you're getting the basics right!

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u/snacks_and_gains·

Yes! I hit a similar wall last year. I started adding in more shoulder mobility work and incorporated some resistance bands for warm-ups. That really helped me feel stronger and more stable during my overhead press. Plus, a good snack with protein post-workout can help with recovery!

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u/momof2_lifting·

I've seen so many lifters get stuck because they're too focused on the numbers. Make sure to listen to your body and prioritize how you feel. Progress can come in different forms.

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u/snacks_and_gains·

Keep it balanced, friends! Lift hard, but also give your body what it needs. Recovery snacks are my jam. You all should try some rice cakes with almond butter for post-lift fuel!

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u/just_a_lifter·

For sure, but at some point you gotta push through or change up your training plan. Doing the same thing over and over won't get you there. Maybe cycle in a new routine?

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u/snacks_and_gains·

^^^ Yes! Mental focus is so underrated. Just don't forget that you also need a solid base. Maybe include some lateral raises and external rotations to support those shoulders.

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Just to add on, your body might be needing more recovery time. Make sure you're not pushing too hard without proper rest. Implementing a solid deload can reset your progress and help you break through those barriers.

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u/chickenncarrots·

Exactly, finding that balance between pushing hard and letting your body recover is crucial. Also, keep your diet on point with enough protein and carbs to support your training.

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u/momof2_lifting·

I completely relate! As a busy mom, I've found that finding time to lift consistently can be tough. I also hit a wall at 185. What worked for me was tracking my lifts and mixing up my routine. Try not to get discouraged, everyone goes through this phase.

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u/whey_addict·

Bro, you just gotta embrace the grind! When I hit 185, I was also feeling stuck. Switched to a 5/3/1 program and it worked wonders. Just keep pushing, and don't skip leg day!

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u/momof2_lifting·

I can relate! Juggling workouts with life as a busy mom is tough. Sometimes I have to adjust my goals or routines to fit in. Have you considered a deload week? It might just be what you need to reset and push past that plateau.

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u/snacks_and_gains·

Honestly, a good night's sleep can make a huge difference too. Don't underestimate the power of recovery and rest. It's all part of the journey!

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u/whey_addict·

Facts! That 185 is like a curse for some lifters. You might want to tweak your programming. Try a deload week or switch to a different rep range, like 5x5 for a bit. Just hit those protein numbers and u'll be slinging that weight in no time!

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u/home_gym_hustler·

Not to mention, rest days are just as important. Don't underestimate their power! They help prevent burnout and prepare you for those heavy lifts.

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u/caffeine_cutter·

100! Can't forget that. Also, maybe try changing your warm-up routine, like doing some explosive push-ups to get the blood pumping.

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u/snacks_and_gains·

^^^ 100%. And for a little pick-me-up, I always snack on some high-protein bars before I lift. They really help me stay energized and focused!

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u/caffeine_cutter·

For real, it can feel like weights are glued to your hands! Have you tried a caffeine boost before your lifts? It might give you that extra edge to break through.

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u/6footdadbod·

You know, sometimes it's not just about the weights but also about the mindset. As a dad, I have my own struggles, but I focus on celebrating small victories, even if it's just hitting a new rep range. Every bit counts, and having fun with your lifts can make a difference.

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u/bodybuilder_junkie·

If you're really struggling, consider a coach or an experienced lifter to help with form. Little tweaks can make a big difference, trust me.

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u/home_gym_hustler·

Have you thought about using bands for accommodating resistance? It can help you build strength through the sticking point. I've got a home setup that includes bands, and it really changes the game for pressing movements.

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u/6footdadbod·

Hitting plateaus is like parenting, no one gives you a handbook! Just keep showing up, and try out different techniques. Even lifting for fun sometimes helps break the monotony.

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u/squat_and_sip·

Hitting a plateau can feel like a block in your progress, but it can also be a sign to switch things up. Adding in some yoga to improve your flexibility might help too. Balance is key!

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u/home_gym_hustler·

Exactly! Sometimes a change in routine or a fun lifting session with friends can help ease that pressure. Just keep it light and fun.

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u/momof2_lifting·

Totally! And don't underestimate the power of a good warm-up. Getting those muscles ready can make all the difference.

0

this! I've been stuck at 135 for ages. It's so frustrating.

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u/chickenncarrots·

Meal prep is so crucial, especially if you're trying to lift heavier. Make sure you're getting enough protein and carbs to fuel those heavy lifts. I usually go for grilled chicken, quinoa, and roasted veggies for post-workout meals.

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u/home_gym_hustler·

Plateaus are rough, but they happen to everyone. Have you tried switching up your grip or incorporating some seated presses? Sometimes a little variation can help shake things loose.

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u/squat_to_pizza·

Skill issue! Just kidding, but seriously, food is key. Make sure you're eating enough before your lifts. Also, a good pump-up playlist can really get you in the zone!

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u/squat_and_sip·

Sometimes it's about mindset. If you keep thinking about that 185, it might be holding you back. Focus on the process and your form, and the weight will come!

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u/whey_addict·

Not to push back, but you gotta focus on your mental game too. Visualization can help! Picture yourself crushing that weight before you even step up. It worked wonders for me.

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u/just_a_lifter·

You're not alone! I struggled with that too. Have you considered changing your grip or stance? Sometimes a small change can lead to big gains. Also, adding in some push press could help with the explosiveness.

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Good call! Adding in some rep ranges from 1-3 for heavy days can really shift your performance. I made that change and it helped me push past my sticking points.

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u/just_a_lifter·

I hit 185 a few months ago and then stalled out. I started focusing on my triceps and shoulders more with accessory work, and it made a huge difference.

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u/caffeine_cutter·

Facts! Also, don't forget to mix in some deload weeks. Recovery is just as important as lifting!

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