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Cuban Press: starting position Cuban Press: end position

Shoulder Rotation · Shoulders

Cuban Press

A shoulder rotation exercise that works the shoulders. Intermediate level, using dumbbells.

IntermediateDumbbellsGymHome

Muscles worked

PrimaryShoulders
SecondaryTraps & mid back

External rotators, delts and traps.

Setup and loading

Overhand grip and upper arms parallel to the floor.

How to do the cuban press step by step

  1. Standing with light dumbbells, raise your arms into a scarecrow position.
  2. Rotate your shoulders until your forearms are vertical.
  3. Press the dumbbells overhead.
  4. Reverse the movement in the opposite order.

Form cues

  • Elbows at shoulder height
  • Very light weight

Common mistakes

  • Using heavy loads
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Sets and reps for your goal

Injury Prevention

2-3 x 10-15 slow

2-3 sets of 10-15 slow reps with a light or moderate load, 2-3 times per week.

Control the lowering (about 3 seconds). This is quality work, not fatigue work: finish every set feeling good.

A guide for healthy adults. Adjust the load to your level and see a professional if you have an injury.

Check your form

Film yourself from the side or ask someone to watch, then tick what you get right.

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Sports it suits

Gear for this exercise

  • Adjustable dumbbellsSave space and replace a whole dumbbell rack at home.

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Variations and similar exercises

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