Shoulders exercise

Standing Alternating Dumbbell Press

ShouldersDumbbellBeginner

The standing alternating dumbbell press 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 standing alternating dumbbell press

  1. Stand with a dumbbell in each hand. Raise the dumbbells to your shoulders with your palms facing forward and your elbows pointed out. This will be your starting position.

  2. Extend one arm to press the dumbbell straight up, keeping your off hand in place. Do not lean or jerk the weight during the movement.

  3. After a brief pause, return the weight to the starting position.

  4. Repeat for the opposite side, continuing to alternate between arms.

Details

Primary muscles
Shoulders
Secondary muscles
Triceps
Equipment & classification
DumbbellLevel: BeginnerForce: PushMechanic: 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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