A Press

A Press

Performing the A Press with cables offers many advantages vs. dumbbells or or a barbell. The A Press movement allows for a greater range of motion on the bottom of the movement with less stress placed on the joints. Reduce stress on the shoulder joint and tissues with this unique cable movement. Work each arm independently and increase core muscle recruitment throughout every challenging rep.


A Press

Prevent shoulder injuries

The A Press requires the trainee to maintain an externally rotated position to support the proper pressing angle. Keep the elbows in proper alignment behind the ears throughout the entire rep. The forces pulling against you from the low cable setting add to the strategic challenge. Dr. Eric Serrano MD prefers the A Press over a dumbbell shoulder press for most of his patients seeking excellent shoulder muscle development, strength and stability.

Cable pressing movements

Aim to bring the elbows to the bottom of the lat for full range of motion.

Improve development of the external rotators, lower portion of the lats, upper portion of the Latissimus dorsi and lower Trapezius muscles.

Experience a smooth range of motion all the way down to the shoulder on the bottom of the movement. The cable handle can travel down farther than a dumbbell due to the smaller surface. This expanded range of motion helps to increase strength and development throughout the functional range of motion. Many trainees make the mistake of not going all the way down during a dumbbell or barbell shoulder press which will create strength imbalances.

The unbalanced training environment requires the core and postural muscles to fire throughout the entire set. Start with a conservative weight load as this exercise is very challenging when done correctly using the proper tempo as well as time under tension. Dr. Eric Serrano MD developed this exercise when he sought a movement to improve shoulder muscle size and stability without stressing the shoulder joint.