Banded Lateral Raise

The banded lateral raise hammers the side delts, the muscle that builds shoulder width. Bands keep tension on the delt through the whole range, especially at the top where it counts.

How to Perform

1. Stand on the middle of the band with a handle in each hand, arms at your sides.
2. Keep a slight bend in your elbows and lead with your elbows, not your hands.
3. Raise your arms out to the sides until they are about shoulder height.
4. Lower slowly under control, resisting the band on the way down.
5. Keep your traps relaxed so the side delts do the lifting.

Tips

• Do not shrug or swing; if you have to heave it up, use a lighter band.
• Pause for a beat at the top with your pinkies slightly higher than your thumbs.
• Stand on more of the band for extra tension.