Lying One-Arm Rear Lateral Raise (Dumbbell)

A rear deltoid isolation exercise performed while lying face down on an inclined bench using one arm at a time.
Instructions
- Lie face down on a slightly inclined bench (approximately 15-30 degrees) with your chest supported against the backrest.
- Place one knee on the bench for stability, with the other foot on the floor.
- Hold a dumbbell in one hand with the arm extended downward and a neutral grip (palm facing your torso).
- Keeping a slight bend in your elbow, raise the dumbbell to the side until your upper arm is approximately parallel to the floor.
- Your arm should remain perpendicular to your torso throughout the movement.
- Squeeze your rear deltoid and middle back at the top position for a brief pause.
- Lower the dumbbell back to the starting position in a controlled manner.
- Complete all repetitions on one side before switching to the other arm.
Tips
- The prone position prevents momentum and isolates the rear deltoids effectively.
- The one-arm variation allows for greater range of motion compared to both arms simultaneously.
- Maintain a neutral neck position by looking at the floor throughout the movement.
- Keep your upper arm perpendicular to your torso to maximize rear delt engagement.
- Breathe in as you lower the dumbbell and exhale as you raise it.
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 |
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