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Resistance Band Single-Arm Overhead Press

Beginner
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A unilateral vertical press using a resistance band that targets the deltoids and triceps to build shoulder strength and stability while addressing imbalances.

About Exercise

Equipment

Bands

Difficulty

3/5 • Beginner

Primary Muscle Groups

Shoulders

Secondary Muscles

Traps, Abs

Popularity Score

7

Goals

Strength
Hypertrophy
Stability
Rehab

Training Style

Functional Training

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

No

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Small

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Shoulders

9/10

Anterior Delts, Medial Delts

Triceps

7/10

Lateral Head

Traps

4/10

Upper Traps

Abs

3/10
Programming

Typical Rep Range

8-15 reps

Rest Between Sets

45-90 seconds

How to Perform

Stand with feet hip-width apart, center the resistance band under one foot, and hold the other end at shoulder height with elbow bent and palm forward.

  1. Engage core and maintain upright posture.
  2. Press hand upward toward ceiling, extending arm fully without locking elbow.
  3. Keep wrist straight and core tight throughout.
  4. Lower hand slowly back to shoulder height under control.
  5. Switch arms after completing reps on one side.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Core tight
  • Elbow close to body
  • Press straight up
  • Neutral spine
  • Wrist aligned

Breathing

Inhale as you lower the band, exhale as you press upward while bracing your core.

Tempo

2-1-2

Range of Motion

Start with elbow bent at 90 degrees at shoulder height; extend arm fully overhead until straight but not locked, then return to start.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Avoid if acute shoulder pain exists
  • Start with light band to master form
  • Keep core engaged to protect spine
  • Do not jerk the band
  • Consult professional for rehab use

Spotting

Spotting not required; self-spot by controlling band tension or use lighter resistance.

Common Mistakes

  • Arching lower back
  • Swinging the band
  • Locking elbows
  • Leaning to one side
  • Using momentum

When to Avoid

  • Shoulder impingement
  • Recent shoulder injury
  • Lower back issues

Flexibility Needed

  • Shoulder flexion to 180 degrees

Build Up First

  • Basic overhead press form
  • Core stability competency

Also known as

Banded Single-Arm Shoulder Press, One-Arm Band Overhead Press, Single-Arm Banded Press, Resistance Band Shoulder Press

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