Side Lateral Raise

An isolation exercise targeting the lateral shoulder deltoids performed by raising dumbbells out to the sides from shoulder height.

Instructions

1. Pick up a pair of dumbbells and stand with a straight torso, feet hip-width apart.
2. Hold the dumbbells at your sides at arm’s length with palms facing your body.
3. Maintain a neutral grip and keep your shoulders back and chest up.
4. Maintain a stationary torso position with no swinging or momentum.
5. Lift the dumbbells out to your sides with a slight bend in your elbows.
6. Tilt your hands slightly forward as if pouring water from a glass.
7. Continue raising until your arms are parallel to the ground at shoulder height.
8. Pause briefly at the top, feeling the contraction in your shoulders.
9. Lower the dumbbells back to the starting position with control.

Tips

• Use lighter weight and focus on form rather than lifting heavy dumbbells.
• Do not swing the weight; keep the movement smooth and controlled.
• Maintain a slight bend in your elbows throughout; do not lock them straight.
• Keep your core engaged to prevent excessive arching of your lower back.
• Perform the movement slowly, both on the way up and on the way down.