Side Lateral Raise

The dumbbell lateral raise is an upper body isolation exercise for building shoulder strength and muscle. It's a staple strength training move and is a great option for accessory work on upper body training days. This exercise particularly focuses on the lateral or medial head of the deltoid, making them appear wider and more developed.

Benefits

  1. Builds shoulder strength and size, even with light weights
  2. Makes shoulders appear wider and rounder
  3. Can be done standing or seated
8.6
Average

Side Lateral Raise Images

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Side Lateral Raise Instructions

Side Lateral Raise muscle diagram
  1. Pick a couple of dumbbells and stand with a straight torso and the dumbbells by your side at arms length with the palms of the hand facing you. This will be your starting position.
  2. While maintaining the torso in a stationary position (no swinging), lift the dumbbells to your side with a slight bend on the elbow and the hands slightly tilted forward as if pouring water in a glass. Continue to go up until you arms are parallel to the floor. Exhale as you execute this movement and pause for a second at the top.
  3. Lower the dumbbells back down slowly to the starting position as you inhale.
  4. Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.

Variation: This exercise can also be performed sitting down.

Alternative Exercises for Side Lateral Raise

Single-arm lateral raise thumbnail image Single-arm lateral raise thumbnail image

Single-arm lateral raise

Muscle Targeted: Shoulders
Equipment Type: Dumbbell
9.1
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Lateral Raise - With Bands thumbnail image Lateral Raise - With Bands thumbnail image

Lateral Raise - With Bands

Muscle Targeted: Shoulders
Equipment Type: Bands
7.9
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Dumbbell Raise thumbnail image Dumbbell Raise thumbnail image

Dumbbell Raise

Muscle Targeted: Shoulders
Equipment Type: Dumbbell
8.4
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