Log Press
A strongman overhead press with a thick log and neutral handles, cleaned to the chest and push pressed to lockout. The neutral grip and front-loaded rack make it a shoulder- and triceps-heavy press with a big leg drive.
Primary muscles
- Front Delts
- Side Delts
- Triceps
Secondary muscles
- Chest (Pectoralis Major)
- Traps (Trapezius)
- Quadriceps
- Glutes (Gluteus Maximus)
- Lower Back (Erector Spinae)
- Abs (Rectus Abdominis)
- Sets
- 3–5
- Reps
- 3–6
- Rest
- 120–180s
How to perform
Main muscles working (thicker lines)
Starting position
Stand with the log in front of your shins, hinge down and take the neutral handles with a firm grip.
Pull the log up the thighs, roll it onto your belly and pop the hips to bring it onto the chest.
Lean back slightly and lift the chest to make a shelf, elbows high.
Dip at the knees, then drive up hard and press the log overhead, pushing your head through at lockout.
Lower the log to the chest, then to the thighs and floor under control.
Breathing: Take a fresh breath on the chest before each press, hold it through the drive and exhale at lockout.
Coaching tips
Chest up, make a shelf
Dip straight down
Head through at the top
Common mistakes
Leaning back excessively on the press
Dipping forward onto the toes
Pressing around the face instead of moving the head back
Letting the elbows drop in the rack
Safety notes
Learn to control the log back down to the chest and belly before training heavy reps.
Use a belt and keep the ribs down to protect the lower back on the lockout.
This information is general fitness guidance, not medical advice. Stop if you feel pain and consult a qualified professional.