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Shoulders exercise · dumbbell

Dumbbell Standing Alternate Raise

The dumbbell standing alternate raise is a dumbbell exercise that targets the shoulders (deltoids), with the traps and forearms assisting.

Animated demonstration of the dumbbell standing alternate raise
Dumbbell Standing Alternate Raise — demonstration
Target muscle
Delts
Also works
Traps, forearms
Equipment
Dumbbell
Body part
Shoulders

How to do the dumbbell standing alternate raise

  1. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, holding a dumbbell in each hand with your palms facing your body.
  2. Keep your back straight and your core engaged.
  3. Raise one dumbbell to the side, keeping your arm straight and your palm facing down.
  4. Continue lifting until your arm is parallel to the ground.
  5. Pause for a moment at the top, then slowly lower the dumbbell back to the starting position.
  6. Repeat with the other arm.
  7. Alternate between arms 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 forearms work as secondary muscles. See all shoulder exercises or every dumbbell exercise.

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