Dumbbell Front Raise

ShouldersDumbbells

An isolation exercise designed to target the front head of the shoulder. Performed standing with dumbbells, it places very low axial stress on the spine.

How to do it

1Stand upright holding dumbbells down in front of your thighs with your palms facing you.

2Keep a soft bend in your elbows and brace your torso in a static position.

3Exhale and raise the dumbbells out in front of you to eye level or slightly below.

4Pause briefly at the top to feel the squeeze in your front delts.

5Inhale and lower the dumbbells back down under control.

Common mistakes

Swinging your torso to bounce the weight up, taking work off the front delts and straining the lower back.

Lifting your arms too far overhead, which recruits the traps instead of the shoulders.

Locking your elbows out completely, placing unnecessary stress on the elbow joints.

Breathing

Exhale as you raise the dumbbells in front of you. Inhale through the smooth lowering phase.

This is general guidance, not a medical opinion. Listen to your body: if it hurts, stop. If you have an injury or a chronic condition, talk to a doctor first.