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Shoulders exercise · barbell

Barbell Front Raise

The barbell front raise is a barbell exercise that targets the shoulders (deltoids), with the biceps and triceps assisting.

Animated demonstration of the barbell front raise
Barbell Front Raise — demonstration
Target muscle
Delts
Also works
Biceps, triceps
Equipment
Barbell
Body part
Shoulders

How to do the barbell front raise

  1. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and hold a barbell in front of your thighs with an overhand grip.
  2. Keep your arms straight and lift the barbell forward and upward until it reaches shoulder level.
  3. Pause for a moment at the top, then slowly lower the barbell back down to the starting position.
  4. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

Sets and reps

For muscle growth, 3–4 sets of 8–12 reps with 60–90 seconds of rest is a proven starting point. For strength, use a heavier weight for 3–5 sets of 3–6 reps and rest 2–3 minutes. Add a little weight once you hit the top of your rep range on every set.

Muscles worked

The main muscle is the shoulders (deltoids). The biceps and triceps work as secondary muscles. See all shoulder exercises or every barbell exercise.

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