Push Press vs. Overhead Press: Differences, Pros, and Cons

To the untrained eye, the push press and overhead press may look like the same lift. Some even use the names interchangeably, thinking it’s the same lift, but it’s not. There are key differences in the execution and purpose of each lift and what they train. 

So what is the difference between the push press vs. the overhead press? The push press allows the lifter to bend their knees and build momentum and force from their lower body to accelerate the weight overhead. The overhead press requires the lifter to only use their upper body strength to push the weight overhead in a more static movement. 

As always, there’s more to understand than can be shared in a simple explanation like the one above. Let’s dive into the details of each exercise to compare them. .

As you look at the overhead press vs. push press, there are three main differences I’d like to point out: 

In an overhead press (sometimes called a strict press or shoulder press), you keep your lower body still and only use your upper body strength to push the weight overhead. There should be no bending of the knees to add momentum to assist the bar off your chest and over your head.