shoulders beginner

Cable Lateral Raise

Cable Machine

Overview

Like a dumbbell lateral raise but with constant tension provided by the cable. The tension is highest when the arm is parallel to the floor, not at the top like a dumbbell — making it superior for medial delt hypertrophy.

Muscles Trained

Primary shoulders
Secondary
Upper Traps (minor)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. 1

    Set cable at the lowest position. Stand sideways to the cable.

  2. 2

    Grab the handle with the far hand, arm crossing in front of the body.

  3. 3

    Raise arm up and out to shoulder height.

  4. 4

    Lower slowly and repeat.

Benefits

  • Constant tension — no dead spot at the bottom like dumbbells

  • Can be loaded very precisely

  • Cross-body start position creates a unique stretch on the medial delt

Form Tips

  • Lean slightly away from the cable to increase ROM

  • Keep reps smooth — avoid jerking the weight

Watch Video Tutorial

Search YouTube for demonstration

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