Raise (Dumbbell)

Level
beginner
Force
pull
Mechanic
isolation
Equipment
dumbbell
Category
strength
Primary Muscles
Secondary Muscles
Raise (Dumbbell)Raise (Dumbbell)

A shoulder isolation exercise where dumbbells are raised to the sides to shoulder height to target the lateral deltoids.

Instructions

  1. Stand upright with your feet hip-width apart and hold a dumbbell in each hand.
  2. Position the dumbbells at your sides with arms extended and a slight bend at the elbows.
  3. Maintain palms facing back and a neutral grip.
  4. Use your shoulders to lift the dumbbells as you exhale.
  5. Raise the dumbbells to the sides until they are nearly in line with your chin.
  6. Your elbows should drive the motion and remain higher than your forearms.
  7. Keep your torso stationary and pause briefly at the top.
  8. Lower the dumbbells in a controlled manner back to the starting position.

Tips

  • Keep your core engaged for stability throughout the movement
  • Lead with your elbows rather than your hands
  • Maintain a slight bend in your elbows to reduce shoulder joint stress
  • Control the weight; avoid jerking or using momentum
  • This exercise is excellent for developing lateral deltoid size and strength

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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