Behind-the-head OHP vs standard?

I'm looking for some advice - I am considering incorporating behind-the-head OHP into my routine, partly to mix things up and partly because I actually find this more comfortable than the standard OHP.

I don't often see people doing this type of press, at least in my gym, and from what I've read there is a greater risk of injury with the behind-the-head press, and bth work in general. Is this the primary reason that people stick to the standard OHP?

Increased risk of injury aside, is there any other reason to avoid this lift? Is it less effective?

Replies

  • DatMurse
    DatMurse Posts: 1,501 Member
    I'm looking for some advice - I am considering incorporating behind-the-head OHP into my routine, partly to mix things up and partly because I actually find this more comfortable than the standard OHP.

    I don't often see people doing this type of press, at least in my gym, and from what I've read there is a greater risk of injury with the behind-the-head press, and bth work in general. Is this the primary reason that people stick to the standard OHP?

    Increased risk of injury aside, is there any other reason to avoid this lift? Is it less effective?
    It puts strains on the rotator cuff. I wouldnt do it behind the head.
    http://www.ncsf.org/enew/articles/articles-contraindicatedexercises.aspx
    I dont have time to look for a biomechanical study or even know if there is one that exists.
  • It puts strains on the rotator cuff. I wouldnt do it behind the head.
    http://www.ncsf.org/enew/articles/articles-contraindicatedexercises.aspx
    I dont have time to look for a biomechanical study or even know if there is one that exists.

    Bummer, but good to know. Also, interesting link, thanks!
  • danimalkeys
    danimalkeys Posts: 982 Member
    Increased risk of injury says it all.
  • Increased risk of injury says it all.

    Agree with this, certainly, but from the (admittedly, not very in-depth) reading I'd done, I had gotten the impression that the increased risk of injury was due to the chance of dropping the bar on the spine, so wasn't sure if there were additional reasons to avoid it. Sounds like there definitely are!
  • FatHuMan1
    FatHuMan1 Posts: 1,028 Member
    While we're on the topic of OHP is there anything wrong with placing one foot forward and one back, as opposed to the standard feet shoulder width apart? I find it much easier to maintain good form with this stance.
  • danimalkeys
    danimalkeys Posts: 982 Member
    One foot forward wouldn't be proper form. Tighten everything- abs, glutes, legs (don't lock your knees but tighten your legs). Make a firm base.
  • While we're on the topic of OHP is there anything wrong with placing one foot forward and one back, as opposed to the standard feet shoulder width apart? I find it much easier to maintain good form with this stance.

    I'd be curious to hear more about this, as well, since I've seen a split stance for OHP recommended on some websites (e.g., http://www.acefitness.org/exercise-library-details/0/71/) but can't really find any solid information either way.
  • Sarauk2sf
    Sarauk2sf Posts: 28,072 Member
    Increased risk of injury says it all.

    Agree with this, certainly, but from the (admittedly, not very in-depth) reading I'd done, I had gotten the impression that the increased risk of injury was due to the chance of dropping the bar on the spine, so wasn't sure if there were additional reasons to avoid it. Sounds like there definitely are!

    It's not just dropping it - it increases rotator cuff injury risk
  • j75j75
    j75j75 Posts: 854 Member
    I used to do behind -the-head OHP when I was in high school, tore my left rotator cuff. Now I only do them standard. Same goes for chin-ups, pull-downs, etc.
  • acpgee
    acpgee Posts: 7,961 Member
    Would stick to bent over lateral raises if you want to hit rear delts.
  • All solid advice/info, thanks everyone!
  • Philllbis
    Philllbis Posts: 801 Member
    If it feels awkward you might try changing the width of your grip.
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