Exercises

Half-kneeling Landmine Press

Great exercise that not only is safe on the shoulders, but provides a myriad of full body benefits. With the trailing leg positioned appropriately, it’s a static hip flexor stretch with same-side glute activation. The load forces the athlete to resist extension, thereby serving as a great anterior core stability exercise.  Additionally, because it’s loaded asymmetrically, it serves as a great lateral and rotary core stability exercise. Lastly, like all asymmetrical-loaded upper-body strength exercises, it trains thoracic mobility and dynamic stability of the scapula. This is something you just don’t get on the same level with push-up variations and bilateral upper body exercises (although those categories do provide unique benefits in their own right).

How to:

  • Place a barbell in a landmine device. If you lack access to a landmine device, place the barbell in the corner of a squat rack and secure it with a heavy dumbbell to prevent it from sliding around.

  • Get into a half-kneeling stance in front of the barbell.

  • Hold the barbell at shoulder height in the hand nearest your back leg.

  • Press up at about 45 degrees.

  • Lower the barbell back down under control.

This exercise should allow you to press without nagging pain or discomfort. It works best in the 6-12 repetition range for 3 to 4 sets on each arm.

Check out the video below for a visual demonstration:

Performance coaches Justin Moore and Mike Cusmano demonstrate the half-kneeling landmine press.