Dumbbell Front Raise

Dumbbell Front Raise

Target Muscle Group - Shoulders

The Dumbbell Front Raise is an effective exercise for targeting and strengthening the anterior deltoids, or the front of the shoulders. It is important to perform this exercise with proper form to maximize its benefits and reduce the risk of injury. By incorporating this exercise into your workout routine, you can foster improved shoulder stability and enhance overall shoulder strength.

This particular exercise can be utilized during your upper body workouts, shoulder workouts, push workouts, and full body workouts.

Dumbbell Front Raise Instructions

Step 1: Stand up straight, with your feet shoulder-width apart. Hold a dumbbell in each hand, with your palms facing your thighs. This is your starting position.
Step 2: Before you begin the movement, engage your core muscles by pulling your belly button in towards your spine. This will help you maintain stability and proper posture throughout the exercise.
Step 3: Keep your arms straight and slightly bent at the elbows. Your palms should be facing downwards, and the dumbbells should be touching the front of your thighs. While maintaining a slight bend in the elbows, raise the dumbbells forward and upward, with a smooth and controlled motion. Keep your arms straight as you lift, until they are parallel to the floor and at shoulder height.
Step 4: Slowly lower the dumbbells back down to the starting position in a controlled manner. Avoid swinging or using momentum to lift or lower the weights. Repeat the exercise for the desired number of repetitions.

Dumbbell Front Raise Tips

  • Select a pair of dumbbells that allow you to maintain proper form throughout the exercise.

  • Focus on the deltoid muscles throughout the movement. Visualize the muscles at work to ensure they are doing the majority of the lifting.

  • Avoid shrugging your shoulders or arching your back during the exercise.

  • Keep the movement slow and controlled, emphasizing the contraction in your shoulder muscles. Avoid using momentum to swing the weights upward.

  • If you're new to this exercise, performing it while seated on a bench can provide added stability and support.


The Dumbbell Front Raise is a fundamental shoulder exercise. Once you have mastered the basic dumbbell front raise, it can be performed in different variations, allowing you to customize your workouts based on your fitness goals and preferences. Whether using different grip positions, using a single-arm, or adjusting the range of motion to add more challenge and engage different muscles, this exercise offers versatility to target the front deltoids from various angles. It is crucial to perform this exercise with proper form and technique to maximize its benefits and reduce the risk of injury. Remember, it is important to consult with a certified fitness professional before starting any exercise program, especially if you have any pre-existing shoulder or joint conditions. Proper form, gradual progression, and listening to your body are key to getting the most out of your workouts and preventing injuries.

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Dumbbell Lateral Raise

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Neutral Grip Dumbbell Front Raise