Car Drivers

A beginner strength exercise for the shoulders, done with a barbell.

Main muscles: Shoulders
Also works: Forearms
Equipment: Barbell
Level: Beginner
Type: Isolation
Movement: Push

How to do the Car Drivers

While standing upright, hold a barbell plate in both hands at the 3 and 9 o'clock positions. Your palms should be facing each other and your arms should be extended straight out in front of you. This will be your starting position.
Initiate the movement by rotating the plate as far to one side as possible. Use the same type of movement you would use to turn a steering wheel to one side.
Reverse the motion, turning it all the way to the opposite side.
Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.

Sets and reps

Muscle	3–4 sets of 10–15 reps, rest 60–90 seconds
Pump or finisher	2–3 sets of 15–20 reps, rest 45–60 seconds

Log every set in MyoStats and it works out your estimated one-rep max and suggests the next weight or rep target, so you keep progressing without guessing.

Alternatives to the Car Drivers

Questions

What muscles does the Car Drivers work?

Mainly the shoulders, with the forearms helping.

Is the Car Drivers good for beginners?

Yes. It's rated a beginner exercise: start light and learn the movement before adding weight.

What can I do instead of the Car Drivers?

Good alternatives that train the shoulders: Smith Incline Shoulder Raise, Straight Raises on Incline Bench, Anti-Gravity Press or Barbell Incline Shoulder Raise.

How many sets and reps of the Car Drivers should I do?

Muscle: 3–4 sets of 10–15 reps, rest 60–90 seconds. Pump or finisher: 2–3 sets of 15–20 reps, rest 45–60 seconds.

Exercise steps and photos: free-exercise-db (public domain).