See-Saw Press (Alternating Side Press)
The See-Saw Press (Alternating Side Press) is a intermediate compound movement that activates 3 muscle groups simultaneously. It primarily targets the Shoulders, making it one of the more efficient exercises in RepStack's 873-exercise database.
Starting position
Ending position
Muscles Worked
The shoulders handles the primary load during this movement. The abdominals and triceps assist as stabilizers throughout the range of motion.
How to See-Saw Press (Alternating Side Press)
- 1
Grab a dumbbell with each hand and stand up erect.
- 2
Clean (lift) the dumbbells to the chest/shoulder level and then rotate your wrists so that your palms are facing towards you as if you were getting ready to perform an Arnold Press. This will be your starting position.
- 3
Now start extending your left arm overhead as you rotate the wrist so that the palm of your hand faces forward as you go up. Your elbows should come out also as you lift the weight. Simultaneously, you will also be bending from your hip to your opposite side. Tip: If you perform the exercise correctly, is should look as if you are trying to reach for something overhead on the right hand side of your body, but with your left arm. Breathe out as you perform this movement.
- 4
Once you reach the top position breathe in. Then, with the weight fully extended overhead and you bent over to your right hand side, begin the movement to the left side.
- 5
Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.
Common Mistakes
- • Brace your core before initiating the movement — maintain tension throughout the entire range of motion.
- • Control the eccentric (lowering) phase for at least 2 seconds to maximize muscle fiber recruitment.
- • Start with your weaker side first — match the reps on your stronger side to prevent imbalances.
- • Avoid locking out aggressively at the top — stop just short of full extension to keep tension on the muscle.
Similar Exercises
Frequently Asked Questions
What muscles does the See-Saw Press (Alternating Side Press) work?
The See-Saw Press (Alternating Side Press) primarily works the Shoulders. Secondary muscles include the Abdominals, Triceps, which assist during the movement.
Is the See-Saw Press (Alternating Side Press) good for beginners?
The See-Saw Press (Alternating Side Press) is rated intermediate. Beginners should build foundational strength with simpler movements first, then progress to this exercise once comfortable with the movement pattern.
What equipment do I need for the See-Saw Press (Alternating Side Press)?
You need dumbbell to perform the See-Saw Press (Alternating Side Press). Most commercial gyms will have this available.
Track Your Progress
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