Shoulders exercise

Dumbbell Raise

ShouldersDumbbellBeginner

The dumbbell raise 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 raise

  1. Grab a dumbbell in each arm and stand up straight with your arms extended by your sides with a slight bend at the elbows and your back straight. This will be your starting position. Tip: The dumbbell should be next to your thighs with the palm of your hands facing back.

  2. Use your side shoulders to lift the dumbbells as you exhale. The dumbbells should be to the side of the body as you move them up. Continue to lift it until the dumbbells are 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.

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

  4. Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.

Details

Primary muscles
Shoulders
Secondary muscles
Biceps
Equipment & classification
DumbbellLevel: BeginnerForce: 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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