Exercise library · Shoulders

How to Do Alternating Deltoid Raise

Step-by-step instructions, muscles worked and workouts that use the alternating deltoid raise.

How to do it

1. In a standing position, hold a pair of dumbbells at your side.
2. Keeping your elbows slightly bent, raise the weights directly in front of you to shoulder height, avoiding any swinging or cheating.
3. Return the weights to your side.
4. On the next repetition, raise the weights laterally, raising them out to your side to about shoulder height.
5. Return the weights to the starting position and continue alternating to the front and side.

Form tips

• Start light and own the movement before adding weight.
• Control the lowering phase — don't drop into it.
• Keep breathing; exhale on the hardest part.
• Stop if you feel sharp pain (different from muscle burn).

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Gear for this exercise

Adjustable dumbbellsA full home gym in one small space.See it on Amazon →Adjustable workout benchUnlocks presses, rows and step-ups at home.See it on Amazon →

Exercise photos and instructions: free-exercise-db (public domain). Animation made from the real start and end photos.