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Lateral Raise (Dumbbell)

Primary muscle
Shoulders
Equipment
Dumbbell

Overview

An isolation exercise that raises dumbbells out to the sides to target the side deltoids and build shoulder width.

How to do it

  1. Stand tall with a dumbbell in each hand at your sides.

  2. Bend your elbows slightly and lean forward a little.

  3. Raise the dumbbells out to the sides, leading with your elbows.

  4. Stop when your arms are about parallel to the floor.

  5. Lower the dumbbells slowly back to your sides.

Tips

  • Use light weights and control every rep.
  • Imagine pushing the dumbbells out toward the walls, not up.
  • Keep your shoulders down and away from your ears.

Common mistakes

  • Swinging your body to lift heavier weights.
  • Shrugging your shoulders as you raise your arms.
  • Raising your hands higher than your elbows.

Similar exercises

All Shoulders exercises

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