Standing dumbbell lateral raises

When standing and executing lateral raises with dumbbells, position yourself upright with a hip-width stance. Take one or two dumbbells in a neutral grip. Allow your arms to hang relaxed at the sides of your body, with the dumbbells touching your thighs. Keep your back straight, tilting it slightly backward to protect your spine during the movement. Focus your gaze forward and prepare for the first repetition.

Movement execution

The bilateral standing lateral raise with dumbbells is a classic variation. Ensure that only your arms move during the exercise, while the rest of your body remains stationary. Exhale as you lift both arms upward without momentum. Stop when your arms are at shoulder height and parallel to the ground. Inhale and return your arms to the starting position.

Additionally, you have the option to perform the unilateral standing lateral raise with dumbbells. Hold one hand behind your back, in front of your chest, or at the side of your body, while holding the dumbbell in the other hand. Exhale as you raise the arm with the dumbbell upward until it reaches shoulder height, almost fully extended. In a controlled motion, bring the dumbbell back down, inhaling during the downward movement.

Stressed muscles and common mistakes

Demanding muscle groups and recurring missteps in performing standing dumbbell lateral raises are extensively covered on the page dedicated to lateral raises with dumbbells.

Alternative variations to standing dumbbell lateral raises

To diversify your training, there is the option to turn to similar exercises or additional versions of standing dumbbell lateral raises.