Kettlebell Lateral Raise

How to Do:

1. Starting Position: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. Hold a kettlebell in each hand with your arms fully extended at your sides, palms facing in.
2. Lift the Kettlebells: Keeping a slight bend in your elbows, raise both kettlebells outward to shoulder height, leading with your elbows. Focus on lifting from your shoulders, not your hands.
3. Pause at the Top: Once the kettlebells are at shoulder level, pause for a moment, feeling the contraction in your lateral deltoid muscles (the middle part of your shoulders).
4. Lower with Control: Slowly lower the kettlebells back to the starting position, resisting the downward motion to engage your muscles.
5. Repeat: Perform the desired number of repetitions, focusing on smooth, controlled movements throughout the set.

Benefits:

The kettlebell lateral raise is a great exercise for targeting the lateral deltoid muscles, which help widen and define the shoulders. This movement improves shoulder strength and stability, contributing to better posture and upper body functionality. Using kettlebells instead of dumbbells challenges the stabilizing muscles more due to the offset weight distribution, leading to greater muscle engagement. Regular practice can help improve shoulder mobility, overall upper body strength, and enhance performance in a variety of sports and physical activities.