Monday, September 22, 2025

Incline dumbbell front raise

IntermediateIncline dumbbell front raise

The incline dumbbell front raise is an effective way to target the shoulders and strengthen the upper body. When performed on an angled bench, the exercise has a greater range of motion than standing or upright-seated raises, allowing the shoulders to be worked from a different angle. It is usually used for moderate to high reps, such as 8-12 reps per set or more, and is a great addition to any shoulder-focused training routine. This exercise requires a bit of coordination and control, as it is important to ensure the back remains in contact with the bench and that the dumbbells remain parallel to each other. Begin by positioning yourself on the bench with the feet flat on the floor and the dumbbells held in front of the chest. From here, inhale and slowly raise the dumbbells up and outwards until the arms are parallel to the ground. As you exhale, lower the dumbbells back to the starting position. The incline dumbbell front raise is a great exercise for increasing shoulder strength and stability. It is a simple, yet effective, exercise that can be done with a relatively light weight and can be incorporated into any upper-body workout. When done correctly, it can help build strong, toned shoulders and can help improve postural awareness and stability.
Type:
Strength
Muscles Used:
Shoulders
Level:
Intermediate
Equipment:
Dumbbell

Benefits Of This Exercise

  • The incline dumbbell front raise is a great exercise for building strong, toned shoulders and increasing shoulder strength and stability.
  • Performing the exercise on an angled bench allows for a greater range of motion and promotes strict form to eliminate momentum.
  • The incline dumbbell front raise primarily targets the anterior and medial deltoids, helping to add size and strength.
  • This exercise can also help improve postural awareness and stability.
  • The incline dumbbell front raise is a simple, yet effective, exercise that can be done with a relatively light weight and can be incorporated into any upper-body workout.
  • It makes a great burnout movement on shoulder day.

Step by Step Instructions For Incline dumbbell front raise

  1. Sit down on an incline bench with the incline set anywhere between 30 to 60 degrees while holding a dumbbell on each hand. Tip: You can change the angle to hit the muscle a little differently each time.
  2. Extend your arms straight in front of you and have your palms facing down with the dumbbells raised about 1 inch above your thighs. This will be your starting position.
  3. Slowly raise the dumbbells straight up until they are slightly above your shoulders, while keeping your elbows locked. Squeeze at the top for a second and make sure you breathe out during this portion of the movement. Tip: Keep your head resting down against the bench and your legs on the floor at all times.
  4. Lower the arms back to the starting position as you inhale.
  5. Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.

Variations: You can use a barbell as well for this exercise.

Warm Up Tips

  1. Choose an incline bench angle between 30 to 60 degrees.
  2. Sit down on the incline bench and hold a dumbbell in each hand.
  3. Extend your arms straight in front of you with palms facing down, raising the dumbbells 1 inch above your thighs.
  4. Keep your elbows locked and slowly raise the dumbbells until they are slightly above your shoulders.
  5. Squeeze at the top for a second and exhale during this portion of the movement.
  6. Keep your head resting against the bench and your legs on the floor throughout the exercise.
  7. Inhale and lower the arms back to the starting position.
  8. Repeat for the recommended number of repetitions.
  9. For variation, you can use a barbell instead of dumbbells.

Incline dumbbell front raise Safety Tips

  • Choose the appropriate incline angle for the bench, between 30 to 60 degrees, to target the shoulder muscles effectively.
  • Ensure that your back remains in contact with the bench throughout the exercise to maintain stability and prevent injury.
  • Keep your head resting against the bench and your legs on the floor to maintain proper form and stability.
  • Start with a weight that you can comfortably lift and gradually increase the weight as you become stronger and more confident with the exercise.
  • Engage your core muscles and maintain a stable and controlled movement throughout the exercise.
  • Exhale as you raise the dumbbells and inhale as you lower them back to the starting position.
  • Avoid swinging or using momentum to lift the dumbbells. Focus on controlled and deliberate movements.
  • If using a barbell instead of dumbbells, ensure that your grip is secure and that the barbell remains parallel to the ground throughout the exercise.
  • Listen to your body and stop the exercise if you experience any pain or discomfort. Consult with a healthcare professional if necessary.

Incorporating Into Other Workouts

To incorporate the incline dumbbell front raise into your workouts, follow these steps: 1. Sit down on an incline bench with the incline set anywhere between 30 to 60 degrees. This angle can be adjusted to target the muscle differently each time you perform the exercise. 2. Hold a dumbbell in each hand with your palms facing down. Start with the dumbbells raised about 1 inch above your thighs. This is your starting position. 3. Slowly raise the dumbbells straight up until they are slightly above your shoulders. Keep your elbows locked and squeeze at the top for a second. Breathe out during this portion of the movement. 4. Lower the arms back to the starting position as you inhale. 5. Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions. It is usually recommended to perform 8-12 reps per set or more. Variation: Instead of using dumbbells, you can use a barbell for this exercise. The incline dumbbell front raise can be incorporated into any upper-body workout routine. It is a simple, yet effective exercise that targets the shoulders and strengthens the upper body. It can help build strong and toned shoulders while improving postural awareness and stability. It is usually used for moderate to high reps, making it a great burnout movement on shoulder day.

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