EOTW - L - Lateral Raise

This is one of my favourite variations on the standard lateral raise.

When I've spoken previously about using mechanical tension to lift more weight or work muscles harder, this is my go to example.

By starting with the elbows bent at 90 degrees, this shortens the lever arm of the exercise aka It makes it easier to lift bigger weights (because physics, yo).

Once the arms are parallel to the floor, the elbows extend outwards as this extends the lever arm again.

Then coming down with control, not just dropping the weights down.

The shoulders are put through a lot more work on this exercise compared to a more straight arm lateral raise.

Key Points

• Stand tall with feet hip width apart and abdominals braced. Hold a dumbbell in each hand with palms facing body.
• Breathe out and curl dumbbells up until elbows are at 90 degrees.
• Maintaining 90 degree bend, lift dumbbells up until elbows are at shoulder height and forearms parallel to floor
• Keep upper arm still and extend hands out to the sides until arms are fully extended.
• Breathe in and lower dumbbells back down to sides.