How does this differ from a standard lateral raise?

A standard lateral raise stops at shoulder height, whereas the full rise continues the movement until the arms are overhead, engaging more of the trapezius and serratus anterior.

What weight should I use for this exercise?

Start with significantly lighter dumbbells than you use for standard raises, as the extended range of motion increases the difficulty and time under tension.

Is this exercise safe for people with shoulder impingement?

Those with existing shoulder issues should use caution or consult a professional, as the overhead portion of the arc can aggravate certain types of impingement if mobility is limited.

Dumbbell Full Rise Guide: Master Your Shoulder Range

Learn the correct technique for the dumbbell full rise to build shoulder stability and strength through a complete 180-degree range of motion.

How to Perform

Stand upright with your feet shoulder-width apart and hold a dumbbell in each hand at your sides with palms facing inward.
Raise the weights out to your sides in a controlled arc, similar to a lateral raise, keeping a slight bend in the elbows.
Continue the upward movement past shoulder height until the dumbbells meet directly over your head.
Pause briefly at the top of the movement while maintaining tension in the deltoids.
Lower the weights back to the starting position along the same wide arc, resisting gravity on the way down.
Ensure your core remains braced and your torso stationary throughout the entire repetition.

Common Mistakes

Using excessive momentum or swinging the torso to lift the weight.
Shrugging the shoulders toward the ears rather than keeping them depressed.
Locking the elbows completely straight which can cause joint strain.
Dropping the weights quickly on the descent instead of controlling the eccentric phase.

Muscles Worked

Primary movers

Shoulders

Stabilizers

Trapezius
Serratus Anterior
Front Deltoids

Related Guides

Arm Raises (T/Y/I) — Shoulders
Arnold Press — Shoulders
Australian pull-ups — Shoulders

Shoulders · Shoulders