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Shoulders exercise · barbell

Barbell Rear Delt Raise

The barbell rear delt raise is a barbell exercise that targets the shoulders (deltoids), with the traps and rhomboids assisting.

Animated demonstration of the barbell rear delt raise
Barbell Rear Delt Raise — demonstration
Target muscle
Delts
Also works
Traps, rhomboids
Equipment
Barbell
Body part
Shoulders

How to do the barbell rear delt raise

  1. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and hold a barbell with an overhand grip, palms facing down.
  2. Bend your knees slightly and hinge forward at the hips, keeping your back straight.
  3. Raise the barbell out to the sides, keeping your arms straight, until they are parallel to the ground.
  4. Pause for a moment at the top, then slowly lower the barbell back to the starting position.
  5. 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 traps and rhomboids work as secondary muscles. See all shoulder exercises or every barbell exercise.

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