Front Raises
An anterior deltoid isolation exercise using a barbell, where the weight is raised from the front of the thighs to eye level using a pronated grip and strict upper body position.
Instructions
- Stand with your feet at shoulder-width apart, maintaining a strong, stable foundation.
- Hold a barbell using a palms-down (pronated) grip at shoulder-width distance.
- Let the barbell rest across your front thighs with a slight bend in your elbows.
- Keep your torso completely stationary and maintain a neutral spine throughout.
- Raise the barbell upward in front of your body using a smooth, controlled motion.
- Continue raising until the barbell reaches approximately eye level or slightly above.
- Maintain the slight elbow bend throughout the entire range of motion.
- Pause briefly at the top and squeeze your anterior deltoids before lowering.
Tips
- Stability and strict form are essential for maximizing anterior deltoid development.
- Avoid any momentum or swinging motion; let your shoulders perform the work.
- The pronated grip emphasizes the anterior deltoids more than a neutral or supinated grip.
- Keep your elbows slightly bent; this reduces stress on the elbow joint.
- Your body should remain upright and stable; avoid leaning backward or using momentum.
- This exercise can be performed with a neutral grip at a 45-degree angle for variation.
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 | 22.5 kg | 12.5 kg |
| Build muscle | 3 | 13 reps | 20 kg | 10 kg |
| Build endurance | 3 | 16 reps | 15 kg | 7.5 kg |
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