Overhead bar front raise

The overhead bar front raise is an exercise targeting the muscles of the traps (trapezius), especially the upper traps, as well as the front or anterior shoulders. It can also be performed with a weight plate or dumbbell, providing a neutral grip that may be more shoulder-friendly for some lifters. Overhead raises are most common for high reps (at least 8-12 reps per set or higher) on a shoulder, trap, or other upper-body-focused muscle-building day.

Benefits

Strengthens and activates the traps, shoulders, and upper-back muscles
Can also be done for super-high reps, such as 50-100 per set, with a light weight as a burnout
Using a bar allows for different grip widths based on what feels best for an individual's shoulders

Type: Strength
Main Muscle Worked: Shoulders
Equipment: Barbell
Level: Intermediate

7.2

Average

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Overhead bar front raise Instructions

To begin, stand straight with a barbell in your hands. You should grip the bar with palms facing down and a closer than shoulder width grip apart from each other.
Your feet should be shoulder width apart from each other. Your elbows should be slightly bent. This is the starting position.
Lift the barbell up until it is directly over your head while exhaling. Make sure to keep your elbows slightly bent when performing each repetition.
Once you feel the contraction, begin to lower the barbell back down to the starting position as you inhale.
Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.

Variations: This exercise can also be performed with dumbbells in each hand or by using a close or wide grip with the barbell. By alternating the widths of your grip, you will be able to contract different parts of the shoulders for an overall better physique.