Exercise 0287 · REF eOrFCnx
The Arnold press adds a rotation through the bottom of the rep — palms facing you at the start, facing away at the top — which brings the front delts into play earlier than a standard shoulder press does. That extra rotational phase is what separates it from a regular dumbbell press, working the shoulder through more of its range in one movement. It's a favorite for anyone chasing rounder-looking delts rather than pure pressing strength.
How to Do the Dumbbell Arnold Press V. 2
- Sit on a bench with back support and hold a dumbbell in each hand at shoulder level, palms facing your body and elbows bent.
- Press the dumbbells upward until your arms are fully extended and your palms are facing forward.
- Rotate your wrists as you lift, so that your palms end up facing forward at the top of the movement.
- Pause for a moment at the top, then slowly lower the dumbbells back to the starting position.
- Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.
Muscles Worked
The Dumbbell Arnold Press V. 2 primarily targets the Delts, with Triceps as the primary synergist muscle group, along with the Upper Chest.
More Shoulders Exercises
Band Front Lateral Raise
Band Front Raise
Band Reverse Fly
Band Shoulder Press
Band Standing Rear Delt Row
Band Twisting Overhead Press
More Delts Exercises
Band Y-Raise
Barbell Front Raise
Barbell One Arm Snatch
Barbell Rear Delt Raise
Barbell Rear Delt Row
Barbell Seated Behind Head Military Press
Equipment Alternatives
Don't have dumbbell? These target the same delts with different equipment.
FAQ
- What muscles does the Dumbbell Arnold Press V. 2 work?
- The Dumbbell Arnold Press V. 2 primarily targets the delts, with the triceps and upper chest assisting.
- What equipment do I need for the Dumbbell Arnold Press V. 2?
- The Dumbbell Arnold Press V. 2 is done with a dumbbell.
- What's a good alternative to the Dumbbell Arnold Press V. 2?
- If you don't have access to a dumbbell, the Left Hook. Boxing targets the same delts using body weight instead.