Log Press
Strength
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The Log Press is a powerful overhead pressing exercise where you clean a loaded strongman log to shoulder height, then drive it explosively overhead to full arm extension. It builds explosive upper-body strength and shoulder stability by requiring you to press an unwieldy, thick-diameter implement rather than a standard barbell. It primarily targets the shoulders (deltoids), with secondary engagement of the triceps, upper chest, and core stabilizers, making it a staple for strongman athletes and advanced trainees seeking pressing power and grip/stability demands beyond a normal bar.
How to Perform Log Press
- 1Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, grip the log's neutral handles from the ground, and clean it up to rest across your upper chest and shoulders.
- 2Set your feet, knees slightly bent, and core braced, holding the log securely against your chest with palms facing each other.
- 3Dip slightly at the knees and hips, then drive explosively upward, using leg drive to help launch the log off your chest.
- 4Inhale deeply, then press the log overhead to full arm extension while exhaling forcefully, keeping elbows tracking forward of the bar path.
- 5Lock out with the log directly over your shoulders, core tight and back neutral.
- 6Lower the log back to your chest under control while inhaling, resetting your grip before the next rep.
- 7Repeat for desired reps, maintaining constant tension in your shoulders and core.
- 8Key form tips: Keep your core tight to avoid arching your back; drive with your legs on the initial dip rather than muscling it up with arms alone. Common mistakes: leaning back excessively at lockout, losing tightness in the torso, or incomplete lockout at the top.
