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Exercise Guide

How to do machine lateral raise

Master the setup, range of motion, and tempo for safer, more effective reps.

The machine lateral raise offers a controlled environment to isolate the lateral deltoids without the stability requirements of free weights. This machine-guided path helps maintain proper form, ensuring the resistance stays focused on the side of the shoulders. It is an ideal exercise for achieving a deep burn and maximum blood flow to the deltoids, contributing to broader shoulders and a V-taper physique.

Stats

TIER
2
DIFFICULTY
Untrained to Advanced
EQUIPMENT
Lateral Raise Machine
TARGET MUSCLES
Lateral Shoulder

Instructions for Proper Form

Setup:

  1. Seat Adjustment: Adjust the seat so that the arm pads are just below your elbows when your arms are hanging relaxed at your sides.
  2. Weight Selection: Choose a weight that is challenging but allows you to maintain proper form.
  3. Grip: Place your arms on the pads, grasping the handles or resting your forearms comfortably.

The Lift:

  1. Raise the Handles: Exhale and lift the handles out to the sides, leading with your elbows. Keep your arms slightly bent and raise them until they are parallel to the floor.
  2. Hold and Squeeze: Pause briefly at the top of the movement, squeezing your shoulder muscles for a peak contraction.
  3. Controlled Lowering: Inhale and slowly lower the handles back to the starting position, resisting the weight as it comes down.

Tips:

  • Focus on the Shoulders: Concentrate on using your shoulder muscles (deltoids) to lift the weight. Avoid using momentum or swinging your body.
  • Elbow Position: Maintain a slight bend in your elbows throughout the entire movement.
  • Smooth Movement: The raise and lower phases should be smooth and controlled.
  • Variations: Some machines allow you to adjust the angle of the arm pads. You can experiment with different angles to target specific portions of your deltoid muscles.

Common mistakes: Gripping the handles too tightly, sitting with poor posture, and using momentum to jerk the weight up rather than controlled lifting.

Alternatives

Dumbbell

dumbbell lateral raise

Lateral Shoulder
Dumbbell

dumbbell incline one arm lateral raise

Lateral Shoulder
Cable

cable one arm lateral raise

Lateral Shoulder
Crossover Cable

cable lateral raise

Lateral Shoulder
Bench

dumbbell seated lateral raise

Lateral Shoulder
Lateral Raise Machine

machine lateral raise

Lateral Shoulder