Log Press

The biggest mistake is thinking this is just a standard barbell press with a bar that's wider. The log sits differently on your shoulders — it can't roll onto your delts the way a barbell does, so you're supporting it with pure shoulder and arm strength from the start. Get it to your chest, then press it overhead. The awkward shape means you'll feel the imbalance more than you would with a straight bar. Don't fight it; use it. The log press teaches you to drive through your whole body because the bar won't cooperate with sloppy technique.