The alternating dumbbell shoulder press performed seated focuses on the shoulders and triceps. Using dumbbells allows you to change your hand position which changes the focus placed on the shoulders. Therefore the alternating dumbbell shoulder press is an effective way to add variety to your shoulder routine. The seated position prevents you from cheating on the exercise with too much weight. By alternating each arm you allow the muscles just enough rest to squeeze out a few extra reps.

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The back scratch exercise is great for relieving tension in the shoulders. Each time you perform the back scratch try and move your hand higher up your back and push your chest out further. This is a good exercise for swimmers or anyone with tightness in their shoulders. Hold the stretch for longer periods and do many sets throughout the day to keep improving.

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Shoulder internal rotation using an elastic band or cable machine strengthens the internal rotators. Rotator cuff exercises such as internal rotation performed with the resistance band help stabilize the shoulder joint.

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The dumbbell lateral “lat” raise performed standing trains the shoulders. Many bodybuilders perform this exercise before pressing to pre-fatigue the primary movers and create a better “burn” in the shoulders. The standing variety allows for more weight to be used than when seated. Begin with the dumbbells to the sides or in front of the thighs.

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The dumbbell shoulder press performed seated strengthens the anterior shoulders and triceps. This exercise also trains the upper chest, serratus anterior and the trapezius muscles. Your low back should be pressed against the bench, however your upper back can remain off the bench in order to allow the scapula to move move. You may also perform the dumbbell shoulder press without back support to activate the core muscles.

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The single arm lateral raise, standing is a great exercise to shape your shoulders. It can be done with a dumbbell if you don’t have access to cables. Since this is more of a shaping exercise it should be done for 8 to 12 repetitions, which is best for hypertrophy. Focus on using your shoulder to do the work and don’t cheat by using your body.

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The single arm dumbbell press standing is a good way to strengthen your shoulder and core at the same time. At the same time it gets the whole body to work together; the legs and core support while the shoulder moves the weight. This is a good alternative to the barbell military press. This exercise can also be done with a kettlebell.

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