Shoulders exercise

Dumbbell One-Arm Upright Row

ShouldersDumbbellIntermediate

The dumbbell one-arm upright row is a shoulders exercise that targets the shoulders with dumbbell. Watch the demo, then follow the step-by-step form guide below.

Looping demonstration — tap play to watch the full movement.

How to do the dumbbell one-arm upright row

  1. Grab a dumbbell and stand up straight with your arm extended in front of you with a slight bend at the elbows and your back straight. This will be your starting position. Tip: The dumbbell should be resting on top of your thigh with the palm of your hands facing your thighs.

  2. Keep the other hand can be kept fully extended to the side, by the waist or grabbing a fixed surface. This will be your starting position.

  3. Use your side shoulders to lift the dumbbell as you exhale. The dumbbell should be close to the body as you move it up. Continue to lift it until the dumbbell is nearly in line with your chin. Tip: Your elbows should drive the motion. As you lift the dumbbell, your elbow should always be higher than your forearm. Also, keep your torso stationary and pause for a second at the top of the movement.

  4. Lower the dumbbell back down slowly to the starting position. Inhale as you perform this portion of the movement.

  5. Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions and switch arms.

Details

Primary muscles
Shoulders
Secondary muscles
BicepsTraps
Equipment & classification
DumbbellLevel: IntermediateForce: PullMechanic: Compound

Browse all shoulders exercises, read our dumbbell workout for back and shoulders guide, or return to the exercise library.

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Educational information only — not medical advice. Stop if you feel pain and talk to your healthcare provider before starting a new exercise program.

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