Log Press

Which muscles does it train?

Equipment needed

How to perform it

For strength, 3 to 5 sets of 3 to 6 reps with 2 to 3 minutes of rest are common. For hypertrophy, use 3 to 4 sets of 8 to 12 reps with 60 to 120 seconds of rest.

Execution and technique cues

• Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, grip the internal handles, and pull the log tight against your shins.
• Lap the log by sitting back, then explosively drive your hips forward to clean the log to the front rack position.
• Dip slightly at the knees, then aggressively drive through the legs while pressing the log vertically overhead.
• Push your head forward through the window at lockout and hold the log stable overhead with straight arms.

Common mistakes

• Leaning excessively backward from the lower back rather than using leg drive to push the log.
• Allowing the elbows to drop toward the floor during the front rack position, which causes the log to roll forward.
• Pressing the log forward in an arc rather than driving it in a straight line overhead.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a log press and a standard barbell overhead press?

The log press uses a neutral grip and requires a clean from the floor, which demands more core stability and upper back engagement.

How can I improve my clean on the log press?

Focus on keeping the log tight to your body and using a powerful hip extension rather than pulling solely with your arms.

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