Let's actually do the data talk on press behind the neck.
EMPIRICAL EVIDENCE???
There are no actual rehabilitation studies (or any controlled clinical/rehab trials) with real empirical data showing that the behind-the-neck (BTN) press is bad for the rotator cuff.
Claims that it's harmful are almost entirely based on biomechanical theory, opinion, or anecdote. Not measured outcomes like increased rotator cuff tears, impingement, pain, or dysfunction in rehab patients.
The closest research we have to look at it is this......
doi.org/10.1016/j.jshs.2013.11.007
"Overhead shoulder press – In-front of the head or behind the head?"
Overhead pressing in a seated unsupported position requires good trunk control to stabilise the posture of the spine.
Females showed greater spine movements, suggesting a trunk strengthening program prior to including overhead pressing may be beneficial. The dynamic external rotation ROM for males was greater than their passive measure for behind the head protocol. To avoid possible injury passive ROM should be increased prior to behind the head protocol. For participants with normal trunk stability and ideal shoulder ROM, overhead pressing is a safe exercise (for the shoulder and spine) when performed either in-front or behind the head.
So if your ROM permits, there's no data suggesting that your going to "blow out your rotator cuffs" from loading external rotation + abduction.
And Coratella et al. 2022 showed significantly higher lateral delt activation than the standard front press.
For the people who say they tried them and can't, then I highly suggest that you actually work on that mobility because your shoulders are DESIGNED to move and be loaded in that position.
