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Shoulders exercise · barbell

Barbell Skier

The barbell skier is a barbell exercise that targets the shoulders (deltoids), with the triceps and core assisting.

Animated demonstration of the barbell skier
Barbell Skier — demonstration
Target muscle
Delts
Also works
Triceps, core
Equipment
Barbell
Body part
Shoulders

How to do the barbell skier

  1. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and hold a barbell in front of your thighs with an overhand grip.
  2. Bend your knees slightly and hinge forward at the hips, keeping your back straight and chest up.
  3. Simultaneously lift the barbell up towards your shoulders while jumping slightly off the ground.
  4. As you reach the top of the movement, quickly reverse the motion and lower the barbell back down to the starting position.
  5. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

Sets and reps

For muscle growth, 3–4 sets of 8–12 reps with 60–90 seconds of rest is a proven starting point. For strength, use a heavier weight for 3–5 sets of 3–6 reps and rest 2–3 minutes. Add a little weight once you hit the top of your rep range on every set.

Muscles worked

The main muscle is the shoulders (deltoids). The triceps and core work as secondary muscles. See all shoulder exercises or every barbell exercise.

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