Build Strong Shoulders with These Effective Workouts for Men

Shoulders are the most important muscles in the upper body and play a crucial role in your overall fitness. To build strong, well-defined shoulders, you need effective workouts that target all three parts of the deltoid muscles. This guide highlights the most effective shoulder workouts for men that will help you achieve your fitness goals.

Overhead Press

The overhead press is the most effective shoulder workout for men. It targets all three parts of the deltoids – anterior, medial, and posterior – and helps to build strength and size. The overhead press can be performed with dumbbells, barbells or kettlebells. Start with light weights and gradually increase the weight as your strength improves. Focus on proper form and avoid arching your back when lifting the weight.

Arnold Press

The Arnold press is another effective shoulder workout that targets all three parts of the deltoids. This exercise was made famous by Arnold Schwarzenegger, who used it to sculpt his massive shoulders. To perform the Arnold press, start with light weights and sit with your back straight. Hold the weights at shoulder height, rotate them outwards, and push them overhead. As you push, press your palms together, then lower the weights back down to the starting position.

Lateral Raises

The lateral raise is an isolation exercise that targets the medial deltoids. This workout is ideal for building wider shoulders and improving shoulder mobility. To perform the lateral raise, hold dumbbells in front of your thighs, palms facing inward. Slowly raise the weights out to your sides, keeping your arms straight. Pause when your arms are parallel to the ground, then lower your arms slowly.

Face Pulls

Face pulls are a great exercise for building the posterior deltoids and improving shoulder health. To perform face pulls, attach a rope to a cable machine at head height. Hold the rope with an overhand grip and pull the rope towards your face. Keep your elbows high and squeeze your shoulder blades together at the end of the motion. Slowly release the rope back to the starting position.