Appears in642 Workouts*

Dumbbell Side-Lying External Rotation

Strengthen your rotator cuff with Dumbbell Side-Lying External Rotations. Improve shoulder health & stability with this targeted exercise!

The Dumbbell Side-Lying External Rotation mainly works the shoulders, with help from the back. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.

Dumbbell Side-Lying External Rotation demo video 2
Mr. Grey
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Optional Equipment

Dumbbells
Dumbbells
Exercise Bench
Exercise Bench
Yoga Mat
Yoga Mat

Dumbbell Side-Lying External Rotation Muscles Worked

Primary

Rotator Cuff (infraspinatus); Small Rotator (teres minor)

Secondary

Lats (latissimus dorsi); Rear Shoulder (Delts) (posterior deltoid)

How to do the Dumbbell Side-Lying External Rotation

  1. Positioning:

    • Lie down on your side on a flat bench or mat. Ensure that your body is in a straight line from head to toe.

    • Place your lower arm under your head for support and keep it bent at a 90-degree angle.

    • Hold the dumbbell in your upper arm, keeping your elbow tucked close to your body. Your forearm should be at a 90-degree angle, pointing towards the ground.

  2. Movement:

    • Begin the movement by slowly lifting the dumbbell upwards by rotating your shoulder externally. Your forearm should move away from your body.

    • Keep your elbow stationary and pressed against your side throughout the exercise. Only the forearm should move.

    • Aim to lift the dumbbell until your forearm is parallel to the ground or slightly above.

    • Hold the top position for a moment to feel the contraction in your shoulder.

    • Slowly lower the dumbbell back to the starting position, maintaining control.

  3. Repetitions:

    • Perform 10-15 repetitions on one side, then switch to the other side and repeat.

  4. Tips:

    • Focus on controlled movements rather than lifting heavy weights. This will help prevent injury and ensure you are working the correct muscles.

    • Breathe out as you lift the dumbbell and breathe in as you lower it.

    • Keep your core engaged to stabilize your body throughout the exercise.

Dumbbell Side-Lying External Rotation FAQs

What muscles does the Dumbbell Side-Lying External Rotation work?

The Dumbbell Side-Lying External Rotation mainly works the shoulders, with help from the back. The main muscles are the infraspinatus and teres minor.

What equipment do you need for the Dumbbell Side-Lying External Rotation?

None. The Dumbbell Side-Lying External Rotation is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.

What workout day should the Dumbbell Side-Lying External Rotation go on?

It belongs on push day in a push/pull/legs routine.

What are some Dumbbell Side-Lying External Rotation variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the Bodyweight Lying Shoulder External Rotation, Cable Kneeling Shoulder External Rotation, Dumbbell Lying Shoulder External Rotation and Dumbbell Supported Shoulder External in Rotation.

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