Shoulders Exercise · Dumbbell
This raise variation trains the deltoids through a straightforward lifting arc, without a bench or support to lean on for momentum. Because it's freestanding, the core and lower back have to stay engaged to keep the torso from swaying as the weight goes up. Keep the reps controlled and the weight light — shoulder raises are one of the easiest exercises to turn into momentum-driven swinging.
How to Do the Dumbbell Raise
- Begin standing with feet shoulder-width apart, holding a dumbbell in each hand with palms facing your body.
- Keep your back straight and brace your core.
- Raise your arms out to the sides until they reach shoulder height, keeping a slight bend in your elbows.
- Hold briefly at the top, then lower your arms back down under control.
- Continue for the set reps, taking care to lower with control and reset your posture between each rep.
Calorie Burn & Set Tracker
Muscles Worked
The Dumbbell Raise primarily targets the Delts, with Traps as the primary synergist muscle group, along with the Rhomboids.
More Shoulders Exercises
Band Front Lateral Raise
Band Front Raise
Band Reverse Fly
Band Shoulder Press
Band Standing Rear Delt Row
Band Twisting Overhead Press
More Delts Exercises
Band Y-Raise
Barbell Front Raise
Barbell One Arm Snatch
Barbell Rear Delt Raise
Barbell Rear Delt Row
Barbell Seated Behind Head Military Press
Equipment Alternatives
Don't have dumbbell? These target the same delts with different equipment.
FAQ
- What muscles does the Dumbbell Raise work?
- The Dumbbell Raise primarily targets the delts, with the traps and rhomboids assisting.
- What equipment do I need for the Dumbbell Raise?
- The Dumbbell Raise is done with a dumbbell.
- What's a good alternative to the Dumbbell Raise?
- If you don't have access to a dumbbell, the Left Hook. Boxing targets the same delts using body weight instead.