Dumbbell Lying Shoulder External Rotation
Improve shoulder health & mobility! This exercise targets rotator cuff muscles with controlled rotation. Start light and build strength!
The Dumbbell Lying Shoulder External Rotation mainly works the shoulders. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.

Optional Equipment


Dumbbell Lying Shoulder External Rotation Muscles Worked
Primary
Rotator Cuff (infraspinatus); Small Rotator (teres minor)
Secondary
Shoulder Rotator (subscapularis); Shoulder Abductor (supraspinatus)
Dumbbell Lying Shoulder External Rotation Variations and Alternatives
How to do the Dumbbell Lying Shoulder External Rotation
Dumbbell Lying External Shoulder Rotation
Positioning:
Lie down on your side on a flat surface, such as a mat or gym floor.
Position your body so that your legs are straight and stacked on top of each other.
Keep your bottom arm extended straight under your head for support.
Hold the dumbbell in the top hand with your elbow bent at a 90-degree angle, resting the forearm on your side.
Movement:
Starting with the dumbbell at your waistline, ensure your elbow stays close to your body.
Slowly rotate your forearm upward, keeping your elbow stationary.
Lift the dumbbell until your forearm is parallel to the floor, or as high as your mobility allows without straining.
Hold the top position for a brief moment, engaging the shoulder muscles.
Lower the dumbbell back to the starting position in a controlled manner.
Complete the desired number of repetitions (typically 10-15) before switching to the other side.
Tips:
Keep your movements slow and controlled to avoid injury.
Focus on using your shoulder muscles rather than your wrist or hand to lift the dumbbell.
Breathe steadily throughout the exercise, exhaling on the lift and inhaling as you lower the weight.
Safety:
Start with a lighter weight to ensure proper form is maintained, increasing weight gradually as you gain strength.
Dumbbell Lying Shoulder External Rotation FAQs
What muscles does the Dumbbell Lying Shoulder External Rotation work?
The Dumbbell Lying Shoulder External Rotation mainly works the shoulders. The main muscles are the infraspinatus and teres minor.
What equipment do you need for the Dumbbell Lying Shoulder External Rotation?
None. The Dumbbell Lying Shoulder External Rotation is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.
What workout day should the Dumbbell Lying Shoulder External Rotation go on?
It belongs on push day in a push/pull/legs routine.
What are some Dumbbell Lying Shoulder External Rotation variations and alternatives?
Similar exercises include the Bodyweight Lying Shoulder External Rotation, Cable Kneeling Shoulder External Rotation, Dumbbell Supported Shoulder External in Rotation and Dumbbell Standing Shoulder External 90-Rotation.
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