Orthopaedic surgeon warns this popular gym move may be wrecking your shoulders

Not every exercise that looks powerful is actually protecting your body. According to orthopaedic surgeon Patrick Denard, one of the most popular gym staples may be doing more harm than good—especially to your shoulders.

In a widely discussed video, Dr Denard, who specialises in shoulder instability and repair, singled out the overhead military press as his least favourite exercise to see people perform regularly. The reason? It places excessive stress on the shoulder joint, particularly when mobility is limited or form slips—which, let’s be honest, happens more often than lifters admit.

From his perspective inside operating rooms, the damage isn’t dramatic in one go. It’s slow, cumulative, and sneaky. Repeated overhead loading can accelerate rotator cuff strain, joint wear, and long-term shoulder injuries, especially when ego lifting replaces control.

So what should you do instead if strong shoulders are still the goal?

Dr Denard recommends arm abduction movements with very light weights, performed in the plane of the scapula. Think controlled lateral raises with a focus on slow, eccentric lowering rather than heavy pressing overhead. The muscles still activate, strength still builds—but the joint stays in a safer, more natural position.

☕ Tea take: If the exercise most loved by gym bros keeps surgeons busy, it might be time to rethink what “strong” actually means.

Note: This content is informational and not a substitute for professional medical advice.