Torso rolls back during raise
Body rotation substitutes for pure shoulder abduction, removing deltoid isolation.
Overactive muscles
Upper trapeziusPec minor
Corrective work
Foam RollUpper traps↗StretchUpper trap doorframe stretch↗Push · Upper Body
Incline DB Lateral Raise
Coaching cues
- Lie on incline bench (30-45°) on your side; arm hangs down
- Raise dumbbell out to side in a pure arc to shoulder height
- The incline prevents body-swinging momentum — it is strictly isolated
- Pause at top; lower slowly under tension
Common faults 3
Elbow bends excessively
Arm shortens to reduce the lever, making the movement easier and less effective.
Overactive muscles
Biceps brachii
Corrective work
StretchOverhead biceps stretch↗Range stops well below shoulder height
Partial ROM that never challenges the deltoid at its full arc of abduction.
Overactive muscles
Upper trapeziusLevator scapulae
Corrective work
Foam RollUpper traps↗StretchSeated upper trap stretch↗