Dumbbell Lateral Raises

Dumbbell lateral raises are a shoulder exercise that mainly targets the lateral deltoids. To a lesser degree, they also work the traps.

Equipment

Dumbbells

Exercise Rating

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Introduction

Dumbbell Lateral Raises are a staple exercise in any hypertrophy-focused shoulder workout, specifically targeting the lateral deltoid muscles to enhance shoulder width and overall upper body aesthetics. This isolation movement involves lifting dumbbells out to the sides of the body, which effectively engages the middle portion of the deltoids, contributing to a well-rounded and defined shoulder appearance. By incorporating Dumbbell Lateral Raises into your routine, you can achieve balanced shoulder development, improve shoulder stability, and enhance your overall upper body strength. This exercise is particularly beneficial for those looking to create a broader, more muscular shoulder profile, making it a must-have in any comprehensive strength training program.

Execution

How to Perform Dumbbell Lateral Raises

Setup

  • Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, maintaining a slight bend in your knees.
  • Hold a dumbbell in each hand with your arms hanging down at your sides, palms facing your body.
  • Engage your core to stabilize your torso and keep your back straight.

Execution

  1. Begin by raising your arms out to the sides until they are parallel to the floor. Your elbows should be slightly bent throughout the movement.
  2. Keep your palms facing the floor as you lift the dumbbells, and ensure your wrists remain in a neutral position.
  3. Pause briefly at the top of the movement, ensuring your shoulders are not shrugged up towards your ears.
  4. Slowly lower the dumbbells back to the starting position with controlled movement.

Finishing

  • Complete the desired number of repetitions.
  • After your set, carefully place the dumbbells back on the rack or floor.
  • Take a moment to stretch your shoulders and arms to aid in recovery.

Discover More Side Delts Exercises

There are many other side delts exercises that you can use in your training

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