Appears in642 Workouts*

Lateral Shoulder Rotation

Strengthen your rotator cuff with Lateral Shoulder Rotations! Improve shoulder stability & prevent injury. Start light, focus on form.

The Lateral Shoulder Rotation mainly works the shoulders, with help from the hip abductors (outer thighs) and back. You'll need: dumbbells or resistance bands.

Mr. Grey
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Required Equipment

Dumbbells
Dumbbells
Resistance Bands
Resistance Bands

Lateral Shoulder Rotation Muscles Worked

Primary

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

Secondary

Hip Abductor (gluteus medius); Boxer Muscle (serratus anterior)

How to do the Lateral Shoulder Rotation

  1. Starting Position:

    • Stand upright with your feet shoulder-width apart.

    • Keep your knees slightly bent.

    • Hold a light weight in your right hand (if using weights) with your arm resting against the side of your body. Alternatively, you can perform the exercise without weights.

  2. Arm Positioning:

    • Bend your right elbow to 90 degrees, keeping your forearm parallel to the ground.

    • Your upper arm should be close to your body.

  3. Movement:

    • Slowly rotate your arm outward by moving your forearm away from your body while keeping your elbow tucked in at your side.

    • Aim to create a motion similar to opening a door with your hand while your elbow remains in place.

    • Stop when your forearm is parallel to the ground or at a comfortable angle, avoiding any strain on your shoulder.

  4. Return:

    • Slowly return your forearm to the starting position.

  5. Repetitions:

    • Complete 10 to 15 repetitions on your right side.

    • Switch to your left side and repeat the same process.

  6. Breathing:

    • Inhale as you rotate your arm outward.

    • Exhale as you return to the starting position.

  7. Tips:

    • Keep your movements slow and controlled to prevent injury.

    • Ensure you maintain good posture throughout the exercise, with a straight back and engaged core.

    • If using weights, start with a very light weight to focus on form first.

  8. Cool Down:

    • After completing your sets, stretch your shoulders gently to maintain flexibility.

Lateral Shoulder Rotation FAQs

What muscles does the Lateral Shoulder Rotation work?

The Lateral Shoulder Rotation mainly works the shoulders, with help from the hip abductors (outer thighs) and back. The main muscles are the infraspinatus and teres minor.

What equipment do you need for the Lateral Shoulder Rotation?

Dumbbells or resistance bands.

What workout day should the Lateral Shoulder Rotation go on?

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

What are some Lateral Shoulder Rotation variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the Bodyweight Lying Shoulder External Rotation, Bodyweight Standing Outer Push, Bodyweight Standing Scapular External Rotation and Cable 90-Degree Shoulder External Rotation.

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