SHOULDERS · DUMBBELL

How to do the dumbbell lateral raise

The dumbbell lateral raise trains your shoulders. Here is how to do it with good form.

Person doing the dumbbell lateral raise
Photo: No machine-readable author provided. GeorgeStepanek assumed (based on copyright claims)., CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Resized.

Step by step

  1. Grab a pair of light dumbbells and stand tall.
  2. Bring your shoulders back, engage your abs, and take a breath.
  3. Lift both arms laterally until your elbows and wrists align with your shoulders. Exhale at the top.
  4. Lower the dumbbells to your sides as you breathe in.

Muscles worked

PrimaryShoulders
EquipmentDumbbell

Sets and reps

Strength3–5 sets of 3–6 reps, 2–3 min rest
Muscle growth3–4 sets of 8–12 reps, 1–2 min rest
Muscular endurance2–3 sets of 15–20 reps, 30–60 s rest

Pick the row that matches your goal. Add weight or reps once every set feels controlled, and log each set so you can see the trend.

Programs that use the dumbbell lateral raise

Track your progress

Repto shows what you lifted on your last session for every set, suggests your next weight, and starts the rest timer when you tick the set. Your estimated 1-rep max and volume for each exercise are charted over time.

Alternatives for your shoulders

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