Arms, chest & shoulders
Lateral raise
Raising light dumbbells out to the sides — shapes and strengthens the shoulders.
Beginner Low impact
How to do it
- Stand tall holding a light dumbbell in each hand by your sides, palms facing in.
- With a slight bend in the elbows, raise your arms out to the sides.
- Stop at shoulder height.
- Lower slowly.
Form tips
- Lead with your elbows.
- Lighter than you think — this muscle is small.
Common mistakes
- Swinging the weights up.
- Shrugging.
Easier and harder
Make it easier
Use lighter weights or raise one arm at a time.
Make it harder
Slow the lowering, or hold at the top for a second.