Upper body
Dumbbell lateral raise
Suggested start: 2–3 sets · 8–12 reps · rest 2 min between sets
Near the top of the raiseDumbbells
Lift light dumbbells out to your sides with a steady torso. Let your shoulders move the weights without a shrug or swing.
How to do it
Stand steady
Hold a light dumbbell in each hand beside your thighs. Set feet hip-width apart and soften your knees.
Set your arms
Brace your middle, keep wrists straight and leave a small bend in your elbows.
Lift out to the sides
Raise both arms slightly forward of your torso, stopping at or below shoulder height within a comfortable range.
Lower slowly
Return the dumbbells to your sides without dropping them or changing your torso position.
Find your form
Keep in mind
- Keep your neck long and shoulders away from your ears.
- Keep thumbs level or slightly higher than little fingers.
Watch out for
- Shrugging or swinging your torso to lift the weights.
- Turning your thumbs down or lifting beyond a controlled range.