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Last updated March 5, 2026
Shoulders
Lateral Raise (Band)
Stand on middle of band. Raise handles to side. Keep thumbs pointing slightly down at top.
Quick facts
- Level
- Beginner
- Mechanic
- Isolation
- Force
- Push
- Type
- Strength
- Injury Risk
- Low
- Hypertrophy
- Low
- Calorie Burn
- Low
Muscle focus
Primary and secondary muscle groups targeted by this movement.
Primary
Side Shoulders
Secondary
Upper Traps
Equipment & setup
What you need and how to position yourself before starting.
Equipment
Resistance Band
Movement pattern
Bilateral
Posture
Standing
Tracking parameters
repsweight
Step-by-step instructions
Follow these cues to master proper technique and stay safe through every rep.
- Step 1Setup
- Stand upright with your feet shoulder-width apart.
- Place a resistance band under your feet, holding the ends of the band with your hands at your sides.
- Step 2Position Your Hands
- Hold the band with your palms facing inward and your arms fully extended at your sides.
- Ensure that your elbows are slightly bent and your shoulders are relaxed.
- Step 3Engage Your Core
- Engage your core muscles to maintain stability throughout the exercise.
- Keep your back straight and avoid leaning forward or backward.
- Step 4Lift the Band
- Raise your arms out to the sides, keeping a slight bend in your elbows.
- Lift until your arms are parallel to the ground, ensuring that your wrists remain straight.
- Step 5Hold the Position
- Pause for a moment at the top of the movement, feeling the contraction in your shoulder muscles.
- Avoid shrugging your shoulders; keep them down and away from your ears.
- Step 6Lower the Band
- Slowly lower your arms back to the starting position, maintaining control of the movement.
- Ensure that you do not let the band snap back quickly.
- Step 7Repeat
- Repeat the lift and lower for the desired number of repetitions, focusing on maintaining good form.
- Step 8Finish the Exercise
- After completing your reps, carefully release the band and stand upright.
- Take a moment to stretch your shoulders and arms if needed.
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