Shoulders
Side lateral raise - Front (Cable)
A precise cable variation designed to isolate the lateral deltoid through a smooth, constant tension profile.
How to perform.
Follow the sequence — setup is half the lift.
Set the pulley to the lowest position and attach a single D-handle.
Stand with your side to the machine and reach across your body with the far arm to grasp the handle.
Position the cable so it runs in front of your thighs with a slight bend in your elbow.
Raise your arm out to the side until it is parallel with the floor, keeping your palm facing down.
Pause momentarily at the peak of the movement while maintaining a proud chest and neutral spine.
Lower the weight slowly back to the starting position across your body to maintain tension on the deltoid.
Common mistakes.
Fix these first — they cost reps, kilos, and joints.
- Using momentum or rocking the torso to lift the weight.
- Shrugging the shoulders toward the ears during the ascent.
- Lifting the hand significantly higher than the elbow.
- Allowing the stack to drop quickly on the eccentric phase.
Muscles worked.
The primary movers do the work; the stabilizers keep the path honest.