During the dumbbell shoulder press, where should physical assistance be applied by the spotter?

In the dumbbell shoulder press, the most appropriate location for a spotter to provide physical assistance is at the wrist or distal end of the forearm. This area allows the spotter to assist effectively while maintaining control over the weights being pressed, ensuring both safety and proper form.

When assistance is applied at the wrist or forearm, it supports the lifter in the pressing motion without interfering with the movement pattern. This positioning helps stabilize the shoulder joint during the exercise, which is crucial as the lifter may struggle to maintain proper alignment and control as the weights are lifted overhead.

Support at the lower back would not be effective or safe, as it does not directly assist the upward pressing motion and may lead to improper posture. Offering assistance at the shoulders could also obstruct movement and could lead to injury. Similarly, providing assistance at the ankles is not relevant to this exercise, as it does not connect to the movement mechanics involved in the shoulder press. This makes the wrist or distal forearm the ideal point for assistance during this exercise.