Front Cable Raise

Level
beginner
Force
push
Mechanic
isolation
Equipment
cable
Category
strength
Primary Muscles
Front Cable RaiseFront Cable Raise

An isolation exercise for the anterior deltoid using a cable machine, where the arm is raised from the side of the body to shoulder height or slightly above.

Instructions

  1. Stand facing away from a cable machine with the pulley set at its lowest position.
  2. Grab the single handle attachment with one hand using a neutral grip.
  3. Let your arm hang straight down in front of your thigh with a slight bend in your elbow.
  4. Keep your torso completely stationary throughout the movement; avoid swinging or leaning.
  5. Raise your arm forward and slightly upward until it reaches shoulder height or slightly above.
  6. Keep your elbow slightly bent throughout the movement; never fully lock out your elbow.
  7. Pause briefly at the top and squeeze your shoulder muscle.
  8. Lower the weight back down to the starting position in a controlled manner.

Tips

  • Maintain a neutral torso; any swinging reduces the effectiveness of the exercise.
  • The cable provides constant tension throughout the entire range of motion.
  • Keep your core engaged to prevent any rotation or leaning during the lift.
  • Perform the movement slowly and deliberately for maximum muscle engagement.
  • You can perform this unilaterally (one arm at a time) to address muscular imbalances.
  • Once all reps are completed with one arm, switch and repeat with the opposite arm.

Recommended starting values

Sensible novice starting points for each goal, for a lifter aged 25–40. Scale down for smaller frames or older lifters. Treat the first set of any session as a discovery set.

Goal Sets Reps Weight
Male Female
Gain strength 3 9 reps 5 kg 2.5 kg
Build muscle 3 13 reps 5 kg 2.5 kg
Build endurance 3 16 reps 5 kg 2.5 kg

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