Strong and healthy shoulders are essential for performing everyday tasks, as well as many exercises and sports activities.
A well-rounded workout routine should include exercises that target your shoulders, but it’s important to do them correctly and avoid injury. These top six exercises for bulletproof shoulders will help you strengthen your shoulder muscles and reduce your risk of injury.
1. Overhead Press
The overhead press, also known as the shoulder press, is a basic exercise that works the deltoid muscles in your shoulders.
Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, hold a weight in each hand at shoulder height, and then press the weights overhead until your arms are straight. Lower the weights back to your shoulders and repeat for several repetitions.
2. Upright Row
The upright row is another exercise that targets your shoulders, but it also engages your upper back and arms. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and hold a weight in each hand in front of your thighs.
Lift the weights up to your chin, keeping them close to your body and elbows bent. Lower the weights back down and repeat for several repetitions.
3. Lateral Raise
The lateral raise is an isolation exercise that targets your middle deltoid muscles. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and hold a weight in each hand at your sides. Lift the weights to your sides until your arms are parallel to the ground.
Lower the weights back down and repeat for several repetitions.
4. Front Raise
The front raise is another isolation exercise that targets your anterior deltoid muscles. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and hold a weight in each hand in front of your thighs. Lift the weights up to shoulder height, keeping your arms straight.
Lower the weights back down and repeat for several repetitions.
5. Bent-Over Reverse Fly
The bent-over reverse fly is an exercise that targets your posterior deltoid muscles, as well as your upper back. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and bend forward at the hips, holding a weight in each hand in front of your shins.
Lift the weights to your sides until your arms are parallel to the ground. Lower the weights back down and repeat for several repetitions.
6. Push-Up
The push-up is a compound exercise that works your chest, triceps, and shoulders. Start in a plank position with your hands shoulder-width apart. Lower your body until your chest nearly touches the ground and then push back up.
Repeat for several repetitions.
Conclusion
Performing these six exercises regularly will help you develop strong and healthy shoulders. It’s important to perform them correctly, with proper form and a weight that’s appropriate for your fitness level.
Incorporate these exercises into your workout routine and you’ll be well on your way to having bulletproof shoulders.