Halo (Dumbbell)
A shoulder mobility and stability exercise where a dumbbell is rotated around the head in a circular motion to strengthen stabilizers and improve shoulder function.
Instructions
- Stand upright with feet shoulder-width apart, holding a dumbbell vertically with both hands at one end, positioned in front of your face with elbows bent.
- Begin rotating the dumbbell around your head in a circular motion, moving it to your right and then behind your head.
- Continue the circular path around to your left side, maintaining control and keeping the dumbbell close to your head throughout.
- Complete a full rotation around your head and return to the starting position.
- Reverse direction and rotate the dumbbell in the opposite direction for the same number of repetitions.
- Perform controlled repetitions in both directions to target stabilizer muscles from all angles.
Tips
- Keep your core engaged and maintain upright posture throughout the rotation.
- Move slowly and deliberately to maximize shoulder stabilizer activation.
- Use a light weight to focus on mobility and control rather than strength.
- This exercise is excellent for shoulder health and can serve as a warm-up.
- Maintain a neutral neck position and follow the dumbbell with your eyes.
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 | 4 kg | 2 kg |
| Build muscle | 3 | 13 reps | 4 kg | 2 kg |
| Build endurance | 3 | 16 reps | 3 kg | 2 kg |