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Shoulders exercise · dumbbell

Dumbbell Single Arm Overhead Carry

The dumbbell single arm overhead carry is a dumbbell exercise that targets the shoulders (deltoids), with the traps and core assisting.

Animated demonstration of the dumbbell single arm overhead carry
Dumbbell Single Arm Overhead Carry — demonstration
Target muscle
Delts
Also works
Traps, core
Equipment
Dumbbell
Body part
Shoulders

How to do the dumbbell single arm overhead carry

  1. Stand tall with your feet shoulder-width apart, holding a dumbbell in one hand.
  2. Raise the dumbbell overhead, fully extending your arm.
  3. Engage your core and keep your back straight as you walk forward, maintaining the dumbbell overhead.
  4. Continue walking for the desired distance or time.
  5. Switch hands and repeat the exercise.

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 core work as secondary muscles. See all shoulder exercises or every dumbbell exercise.

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