Your Cart is Empty
When it comes to building muscle and getting the maximum gains out of your fitness routine, shoulders are a key part of the equation. A strong set of shoulders can help you perform more effectively in the gym, as well as enhance your overall physique.
Shop The Collection: BarbellsThe shoulder is a complex joint that involves multiple muscles and ligaments, so it’s important to focus on exercises that target all of these components. In this article, we will discuss the best shoulder exercises to maximize your muscle gains.
Shop The Gear: CAP Barbell Olympic Chrome Bar, 6-ft, $149.99 CAD
One of the most effective shoulder exercises is the barbell overhead press. This exercise works both the front and rear deltoids, as well as the trapezius and rotator cuff muscles. To perform the barbell overhead press, begin by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart and an overhand grip on the barbell. Lift the barbell up until your arms are fully extended and then lower it back down to your chest. Perform 3 sets of 8-12 reps.
Dumbbell shoulder presses are another great exercise for developing shoulder strength and size. This exercise primarily targets the anterior, medial, and posterior deltoids. To perform the dumbbell shoulder press, begin by sitting on a bench with a pair of dumbbells held in each hand. With your palms facing forward and your elbows bent at 90 degrees, lift the dumbbells up until your arms are fully extended and then lower them back down. Perform 3 sets of 8-12 reps.
Front raises are a great way to target the anterior deltoids and improve shoulder stability. To perform the front raise, begin by standing with a pair of dumbbells held in each hand. With your arms held straight and at your sides, raise the weights up in front of you until your arms are parallel to the floor. Lower the weights back down and repeat. Perform 3 sets of 8-12 reps.
Lateral raises are an excellent exercise for targeting the lateral deltoids and improving shoulder mobility. To perform the lateral raise, begin by standing with a pair of dumbbells held in each hand. With your arms held straight and at your sides, raise the weights up to your sides until your arms are parallel to the floor. Lower the weights back down and repeat. Perform 3 sets of 8-12 reps.
Rear deltoid flyes are a great exercise for targeting the posterior deltoids and improving shoulder stability. To perform the rear deltoid flye, begin by standing with a pair of dumbbells held in each hand. With your arms held straight and at your sides, raise the weights up behind you until your arms are parallel to the floor. Lower the weights back down and repeat. Perform 3 sets of 8-12 reps.
Upright rows are a great exercise for targeting the trapezius muscles and improving shoulder strength. To perform the upright row, begin by standing with a barbell held in both hands. With your arms held straight and at your sides, raise the barbell up until it reaches your chin. Lower the barbell back down and repeat. Perform 3 sets of 8-12 reps.
In conclusion, the shoulder is a complex joint that requires a variety of exercises to target all of its components. The exercises discussed in this article are some of the best shoulder exercises for maximizing your muscle gains. It’s important to remember that form is essential when performing any exercise, so be sure to use proper technique to avoid injury and maximize your results.
