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Challenge · 2025

#68: 100 Push Presses with Dumbbells or Barbell

Build overhead strength, coordination, and total-body drive with 100 push presses. Use dumbbells or a barbell to test both power and stamina.

By Editorial Team · · Updated

Athlete mid-push press using a barbell in a functional gym, bar just above forehead

The push press is one of the most transferable strength movements in any athlete’s toolkit. It demands coordination, power from the lower body, and lockout strength in the shoulders and triceps. But more than that, it’s a serious test of cardiovascular capacity when performed at volume.

In this challenge, you’ll complete 100 push presses using dumbbells or a barbell. It might sound straightforward, but under load, the reps add up fast.

“Push. Press. Breathe. Repeat. This one doesn’t just build muscle, it builds presence.” — RB100.Fitness

Athlete performing push press with dumbbells, overhead lockout position, full-body tension
Athlete performing push press with dumbbells, overhead lockout position, full-body tension

Challenge Format

  • Total Reps: 100
  • Equipment: Dumbbells or barbell
  • Weight Guidance: Beginner: 15–25% of bodyweight
  • Intermediate: 30–50% of bodyweight
  • Advanced: 60–70% of bodyweight

You can break the 100 reps into manageable sets (10x10, 5x20, descending ladder). Focus on maintaining form: dip slightly with knees, drive through your legs, and lock out overhead with control.

Rest as needed, but try to complete all 100 within 10–15 minutes. Record your weight, time, and set structure in the RB100 Tracker.

Benefits of the Push Press

  • Builds shoulder and tricep strength with additional leg drive
  • Reinforces proper overhead mechanics
  • Trains total-body coordination and explosive power
  • Elevates heart rate for metabolic conditioning
  • Mimics real-world lifting movements

Unlike a strict press, the push press allows you to use more weight and volume by generating momentum from your legs. It’s a key tool in Olympic lifting, CrossFit, functional strength work, and sports conditioning.

Programming Variations

Learn More

Side view of female athlete showing drive from legs and core during a heavy barbell push press, gym lighting emphasizing intensity
Side view of female athlete showing drive from legs and core during a heavy barbell push press, gym lighting emphasizing intensity

“Push. Press. Breathe. Repeat. This one doesn’t just build muscle, it builds presence.”

— — RB100.Fitness

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