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Lateral Raise Dumbbell

Exercise Type / Difficulty:

Strength
/
Beginner

Equipment:

Dumbbell

Muscle Groups:

Shoulders
Lats

Description

The dumbbell lateral raise is an isolation exercise that targets the side (lateral) deltoids. It's a key movement for developing broader, more defined shoulders and is often used to complement pressing movements in upper-body training.

How to Perform

  1. Stand tall holding a dumbbell in each hand at your sides, palms facing in.
  2. With a slight bend in your elbows, raise the dumbbells out to your sides until they reach shoulder height.
  3. Pause briefly at the top.
  4. Lower the dumbbells back down under control to the starting position.

Coaching Cues

  • Lead with your elbows, not your hands.
  • Keep your shoulders down and avoid shrugging.
  • Use light to moderate weight to maintain good form.
  • Don’t swing or use momentum — focus on strict control.