Exercise guide
Press Sit-Up
The Press Sit-Up combines a weighted sit-up with a barbell press as the torso rises. The abdominals lift the torso while the chest, shoulders, and triceps move and stabilize the bar.
Training context
How the Press Sit-Up Differs
The barbell changes position while the torso is also moving, which creates more coordination and balance demand than either exercise alone. The load remains above the torso and may pass near the face.
This is an advanced variation. Use a very light bar, secure the feet appropriately, and have assistance available. A plate or medicine ball is often easier to control.
Technique overview
Keep the bar controlled throughout the sit-up
Begin with the bar secured at the chest and the legs supported. Curl the torso upward and press the bar only as the body reaches a stable position. Finish with the bar controlled overhead, then bring it toward the chest as the torso lowers. Stop if the bar path or balance becomes uncertain.
Treat this as an overview and use a range, pace, and setup you can control.