Scott Press

Exercise / Shoulders

Scott Press

Developed by renowned bodybuilding trainer Vince Gironda for his student Larry Scott, the Scott Press is a shoulder exercise that targets all three parts of the shoulder simultaneously. By incorporating an arc-like motion while rotating the wrists during the press, the exercise effectively engages the lateral, front, and rear deltoids in a single fluid movement. This comprehensive engagement is what sets the Scott Press apart from other shoulder exercises, making it a powerful tool for balanced shoulder development.

The dumbbell Scott press can be difficult to master. In the early stages of the Scott Press movement, it is recommended to do it with a high number of repetitions and a relatively light weight.

How to do:

how to scott press

  1. Hold a dumbbell in each hand, and start with your arms at shoulder level, bent at approximately 90-degree angles. With your palms facing each other.
  2. Perform a rotational movement just like with the Arnold Press.
  3. Before the dumbbells reach the top of the movement, rotate them slightly up and out, lower your wrists back to the starting position (palms facing each other), and repeat the movement.
  4. Repeat the movement for the desired number of repetitions.

Tips for performing the Scott Press:

  • Think of it like a shortened Arnold Press and not press the weight all the way up like a shoulder press.
  • Use a controlled motion throughout the exercise to avoid any jerking or swinging.
  • Start with a lighter weight to get used to the movement pattern and then gradually increase the weight as you gain proficiency.
  • Focus on keeping tension on the shoulder muscles throughout the entire range of motion.
  • Breathe naturally during the exercise, exhaling as you press the dumbbells up and inhaling as you lower them down.

Scott Press Benefits

Balanced Shoulder Development: By targeting all three heads of the deltoid at once, the Scott Press ensures balanced shoulder development. This can lead to improved aesthetics, symmetry, and strength in the shoulder region.

Enhanced Shoulder Stability: Strengthening all aspects of the deltoid muscle contributes to better shoulder joint stability. This can be especially beneficial for individuals involved in sports or activities that require shoulder stability during overhead movements.

Time Efficiency: The Scott Press’s unique ability to work all three parts of the deltoid in a single exercise makes it a time-efficient option for those seeking an effective shoulder workout.

Improved Muscle Definition: As the deltoid muscles grow and become more defined, the shoulder region takes on a sculpted appearance, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the upper body.

Scott Press Muscles Worked

Target - Lateral Deltoid
Synergists - Posterior Deltoid
Synergists - Anterior Deltoid
Synergists - Supraspinatus
Synergists - Infraspinatus
Synergists - Trapezius
Synergists - Serratus Anterior
Rear Lateral Dumbbell Raise musle