As you get older one of the first parts of your body that begin to break down is your shoulders. If you’re looking to improve your shoulder strength, you’re in luck. There are many different exercises that you can do to achieve this goal. This article will discuss the best exercises for strengthening your shoulders. It will also provide instructions on how to perform these exercises correctly. So, whether you’re just starting out or a gym junkie you’ll be able to strengthen your shoulders by following these tips!
Contents
Incline Bench Press
One of the best exercises to build shoulder strength is the incline bench press. This exercise targets the front and middle deltoids, as well as the triceps. To properly execute this move, start by lying on an incline bench with your feet flat on the ground. You will then grab the barbell with an overhand grip, making sure that your hands are shoulder-width apart. From here, you will lift the barbell off of the rack and bring it down to your chest. Once the barbell is at your chest, pause for a moment and then press it back up to the starting position. Remember to keep your core engaged throughout the entire movement. If you’re looking for a challenge, you can add weight to the bar as you build strength.
Kettle Bell Swings
Another great exercise for strengthening your shoulders is the kettle bell swing. This move not only strengthens your shoulders but also your hips and legs. To properly execute a kettle bell swing, start by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart. You will then hold a kettlebell in both hands in front of your waist. Then, you will swing the kettlebell back between your legs and then explosively swing it forward, up to eye level. Be sure to engage your glutes and core throughout the entire movement. As you become more comfortable with the movement, you can increase the weight of the kettlebell.
Lateral Raises
This exercise works the deltoid muscles, which are the muscles that make up the rounded contour of the shoulder. This movement is best done with light weight dumbells. To do lateral raises, stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and your knees slightly bent. Start with your arms at your sides, then raise them out to the side until they’re parallel to the ground. Lower back down and repeat. This exercise should be a bit challenging but should not be painful. If it is, lower the weight or intensity.
Overhead Press
The overhead press is one of the most effective exercises for building shoulder strength. It involves pressing a weight overhead while standing. If you’re new to the overhead press, start with light weights and gradually increase the amount of weight you’re lifting as you get stronger. To do these properly, be sure to keep your core engaged and your lower back flat. This will help you to avoid injury and get the most out of the exercise. You should also focus on pressing the weight straight up, rather than letting it drift forward. This will help to target the muscles in your shoulder more effectively.
Military Press
The military press is a variation of the overhead press. It’s a bit more challenging, but it’s a great exercise for targeting the shoulder muscles. To do this exercise, start by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart and your knees slightly bent. Next, raise your arms up to shoulder level with your palms facing forward. From here, press the weights overhead, making sure to keep your core engaged and your lower back flat. As with the overhead press, be sure to focus on pressing the weight straight up rather than letting it drift forward. You can also do this exercise seated if you want to put less stress on your lower back.
Arnold Press
The Arnold press is another variation of the overhead press. It’s named after Arnold Schwarzenegger, who is known for his impressive physique. To do this exercise, start by sitting on a bench or chair with your feet shoulder-width apart and your knees bent. Next, hold a dumbbell in each hand at shoulder level with your palms facing your body. From here, press the weights overhead, making sure to keep your core engaged and your lower back flat. As you press the weights up, rotate your palms so that they’re facing forward when the weights are in line with your shoulders. Lower back down and repeat. This exercise is a great way to target the shoulder muscles while also working the muscles in your chest and arms.
Kettle Bell Single-Arm Press
The kettlebell single-arm press is a challenging exercise that works the shoulder muscles, as well as the muscles in the arms and chest. To do this exercise, start by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart and your knees slightly bent. Next, hold a kettlebell in one hand at shoulder level with your palm facing your body. From here, press the kettlebell overhead, extending your arm fully. Return to the starting position and repeat.
Conclusion
These are just a few of the best exercises for strengthening the shoulders. Be sure to mix things up and try different exercises to keep your workouts interesting and effective. And, as always, be sure to warm up before you start lifting weights and cool down when you’re finished. As with any exercise start with lower weights and repetitions and gradually increase as your strength improves. Remember to focus on form and quality over quantity. With consistency and dedication, you’ll be sure to see results in no time!
