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  7. Landmine Seated Shoulder Press

Exercise guide

Landmine Seated Shoulder Press

  • Intermediate
  • Compound
  • Rep-based
  • Shoulders
  • Upper arms
  • Waist

This exercise targets the anterior and medial deltoids through a joint-friendly pressing arc, utilizing the seated position to eliminate leg drive and maximize shoulder isolation. The landmine's fixed path provides a unique combination of stability and freedom of movement that reduces stress on the rotator cuff.

Reviewed by the Crucible team · Updated June 2026

Watch the Landmine Seated Shoulder Press demonstrationGuided video and your full workout live in the Crucible app.

Muscles worked

Primary

  • Deltoids

Secondary

  • Abs
  • Serratus anterior

Equipment

  • Barbell

Setup

  1. Place a flat bench facing the landmine attachment, approximately 2 feet from the end of the barbell.
  2. Sit at the edge of the bench with your feet planted firmly and wider than shoulder-width for stability.
  3. Grasp the end of the barbell with both hands (cupped) or a single hand at shoulder height.
  4. Lean your torso slightly forward so your spine is aligned with the natural angle of the barbell.

How to do it

  1. Exhale as you press the barbell upward and forward along its natural arc until your arms are fully extended.
  2. Inhale as you slowly lower the barbell back to the starting position just above your upper chest.
  3. Maintain a controlled tempo, taking 2 seconds to press and 2-3 seconds to lower the weight.
  4. If performing unilaterally, complete all reps on one side before switching to the other.

Form checklist

  • Keep your core braced and avoid arching your lower back as you press.
  • Ensure your elbows stay tucked at a 45-degree angle rather than flaring out to the sides.
  • Maintain a neutral wrist position throughout the entire movement.
  • Keep your head in a neutral position, looking forward or slightly up toward the barbell.

Pro tips

  • At the top of the movement, lean slightly into the press to achieve full shoulder flexion and engage the serratus anterior.
  • Focus on squeezing your triceps at the peak of the movement for maximum muscle fiber recruitment.
  • Use a 'hollow body' position by pulling your ribs down toward your pelvis to prevent rib flare.

Make it harder

  • Perform the movement unilaterally (one arm at a time) to challenge your oblique and core stability.
  • Add a 2-second pause at the bottom of the rep to eliminate momentum and increase difficulty.

Frequently asked

What muscles does the landmine seated shoulder press work?
The landmine seated shoulder press primarily targets the deltoids, and also works the abs and serratus anterior as secondary muscles.
What equipment do you need for the landmine seated shoulder press?
The landmine seated shoulder press uses barbell.
Is the landmine seated shoulder press good for beginners?
The landmine seated shoulder press is rated intermediate. Build a base with simpler variations first, then progress to it with light load and strict form.

Related exercises

  • 45 Degrees Arms PlankIntermediate · abs, deltoids, obliques, and pectorals
  • Alternate Front Kick In Place With Arm CirclesBeginner · abs, calves, deltoids, and pectorals
  • Alternate Knee Raise Side ReachBeginner · abs, deltoids, and obliques
  • Arm Double CrossoverIntermediate · biceps, deltoids, and triceps

Train this with a plan, not guesswork

Crucible builds the landmine seated shoulder press into a precise program around your body, equipment, location, and time.

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