Smart Workout Diary

Dumbbell Front Raise

The dumbbell front raise is an isolation exercise in which dumbbells are lifted in front of the body with mostly straight arms. It primarily targets the front deltoids and supports shoulder strength and muscular development.

Demonstration

Dumbbell Front Raise — demonstration 1
Dumbbell Front Raise — demonstration 2

Instructions

  1. Stand tall with feet about hip-width apart, holding a dumbbell in each hand in front of the thighs with palms facing the body.
  2. Brace the abdomen, keep a slight bend in the knees, and set the shoulders down away from the ears.
  3. Raise both dumbbells forward in a controlled arc, keeping a soft bend in the elbows and the wrists neutral.
  4. Stop when the dumbbells reach about shoulder height; do not lean back or shrug the shoulders.
  5. Lower slowly to the starting position under control, then repeat. Use a lighter load if you cannot keep the torso still.
Muscle Group
Front Delts
Type
Strength
Mechanics
Isolation
Equipment
Dumbbell
Difficulty
Beginner

Technique tips

  1. Use controlled weight: swinging the dumbbells shifts work away from the shoulders.
  2. Keep the ribs down: avoid arching the lower back to lift higher.
  3. Breathe smoothly: exhale while raising and inhale while lowering.
Exercise library