Home > Fitness Training > Exercise Database > Dumbbell Exercises > Forward Raises

Equipment Required: a pair of dumbbells

Technique

1. Start by standing with the feet shoulder width apart and the torso in an upright position, with a dumbbell in each hand.
2. Turn the dumbbells so that the palms are facing your thighs and slightly bend at the elbows.
3. Keeping your arm relatively straight, raise your right arm in front of you until the dumbbell is directly in front of your shoulder.
4. Pause and slowly lower to the starting position.
5. Repeat the movement with the left arm, and continue alternating arms until all repetitions are complete.

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Key points to remember

• Keep the abdominals tight and the lower back in a neutral position

Alternatives

• This exercise can be performed with the hands turned so that the palm is facing behind you. This will work a more lateral part of the shoulder.
• See also the dumbbell side raise

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Related Pages

• More Dumbbell Exercises
• Free weights for sale in the fitness store