The Study
Front vs Back and Barbell vs Machine Overhead Press: An Electromyographic Analysis and Implications For Resistance Training
This study shows which muscles are more active during different shoulder exercises in a small group of bodybuilders. It doesn’t prove that one exercise is better or will build more muscle — it just shows what happens during the movement.
Analysis score
Maximum 44 for a cross-sectional study.
Where the score came from
This study checks which shoulder exercises turn on which muscles the most using special sensors.
Where does this study sit?
Systematic Reviews & Meta-analyses
Max 100Randomized Trials
Max 90Cohort Studies
Max 72Case-Control
Max 58Cross-Sectional
Max 44Case Reports & Series
Max 30Expert Opinion
Max 544 / 100
Quality score
Detailed descriptions of individual patients or small groups. Valuable for identifying new conditions or side effects, but cannot establish generalizable conclusions.
Key takeaways
Summary
Based on the study abstract and findings.
- 1Yes, the differences are large and could help athletes choose better exercises for building specific muscles.
- 2Back barbell press turns on side and back shoulder muscles more.
- 3Front barbell press turns on chest muscles more.
- 4Lifting the weight up uses more muscle power than lowering it down.
- 5Free weights (barbell) make muscles work harder than machines.
Score breakdown, methodology, conflicts of interest, evidence analysis & raw study data
Publication
Journal
Frontiers in Physiology
Year
2022
Authors
G. Coratella, Gianpaolo Tornatore, S. Longo, F. Esposito, E. Cé
Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health decisions.