The overhead press is a compound exercise that primarily works the front delts, lateral delts, and triceps. It is a foundational movement that is great for building upper body strength and size, specifically in the shoulders, triceps, and upper chest. The overhead press can be done with dumbbells or kettlebells, but using a barbell makes the lift sturdier, allowing you to lift more weight and engage more overall muscle mass. If you choose to do the overhead press from a standing position, youll work most of the large muscles in your upper body, including the shoulders, triceps, and trapezius muscle. The overhead press can also help improve core stability and strengthening, which can positively impact other lifts and athletic performance.