Dumbbell Scott Press
Description
The dumbbell Scott press (named after Larry Scott) is a unique hybrid shoulder exercise that combines a lateral raise with an overhead press. From a starting position with dumbbells at your shoulders, you raise them out to the sides at shoulder height, then press them straight up overhead. It hits all three heads of the deltoid in one rep.
Muscle Group
Equipment Required
Dumbbell Scott Press Instructions
- Stand or sit holding a dumbbell in each hand at shoulder height with palms facing you.
- Bend at the elbows so the dumbbells start in front of your shoulders, like the top of a hammer curl.
- Brace your core.
- Raise both dumbbells out to the sides until your upper arms are parallel to the floor (lateral raise position).
- From this lateral raise position, rotate your forearms up so palms face forward.
- Press both dumbbells straight up overhead until arms are fully extended.
- Reverse the motion: lower to lateral position, then back to start.
- Use lighter weight than standard pressing — the combination is more demanding.
Dumbbell Scott Press Form & Visual
Dumbbell Scott Press Benefits
- Hits all three heads of the deltoid in one rep
- Time-efficient shoulder builder
- Provides unique stimulus
- Builds shoulder strength and size
- Useful for breaking through shoulder plateaus
- Works at home with dumbbells
Dumbbell Scott Press Muscles Worked
- Anterior deltoid
- Lateral deltoid (heavy involvement)
- Posterior deltoid (slight)
- Triceps brachii
- Upper trapezius
Dumbbell Scott Press Variations & Alternatives
- Dumbbell Arnold Press
- Dumbbell Seated Shoulder Press
- Dumbbell Lateral Raise
- Seated Scott Press
- Single-Arm Scott Press
