by Nadia Sinclair

The simple yet effective movement of a lateral raise can have a dramatic impact on your upper body strength, mainly the shoulders. However, this deceivingly straightforward exercise requires more finesse and control than one might guess. It is often recklessly executed rush, resulting in minimal benefits. This guide is here to help you grasp the correct form and techniques, enabling you to make the most out of your body sculpting experience.

The lateral raise, with its host of alternative names such as lat raises and shoulder raises, is a typical feature in countless fitness regimes. The draw? Its potential to enhance stability and strength using minimal equipment. You only require a pair of dumbbells for this workout, but keep in mind that this routine calls for lighter weights than you might anticipate.

According to experienced personal trainer, it’s crucial to “check your ego at the gym entrance” when performing a lateral raise. If you handle more weight than you can manage, you risk compromising both muscle targeting and movement range, consequently reducing the effectiveness of the workout.

Lateral raises primarily engage your deltoids, upper arms, and core. Despite being beginner-friendly, it’s imperative to grasp the proper technique and form to reap the maximum shoulder-strengthening benefits. With the correct preparations and adjustments, even the tiniest changes can propel you far in the fitness journey, and you can quickly observe the benefits of mastered lateral raises.

Ready to ace the lateral raise? Here’s an easy-to-follow guide:

1. Ensure your feet are hip-width apart and your knees slightly bent.
2. With an overhand grip, clutch a dumbbell in each hand with arms by your sides.
3. Engage your core and raise your arms out to the side with bent elbows leading the way.
4. Once your arms reach shoulder height, pause for a moment, lower and repeat the process.

Some more tips to optimize your lateral raise performance:

• Drive this move by your elbows, not your wrists. Your elbows should always stay above your wrists as you hoist the weights.
• Opt for lighter weights that allow you to complete ten reps comfortably. Your deltoid muscles contract at the highest point of this move, which implies that the weights need to reach shoulder level.
• Avoid throwing the weights. This move should be strictly controlled—if not, you’ll likely have to reduce the weights.
• Engage your core muscles during the exercise to support your back and prevent arching––an absolute faux pas during this workout.
• Stand with your feet at least hip-width apart for better balance and execution.

With this knowledge at your disposal, you’re fully equipped to conquer the lateral raise and step up your upper body workouts. Remember, the key lies in correct form, controlled movements, and sensible weight load. Adequately performed, the humble lateral raise can indeed become a game-changer in your fitness journey.

Lateral raise, upper body strength, shoulder workout, proper workout form, light weights, deltoid muscles, weightlifting, controlled movements, gym exercises