Incline Lateral Raises Guide

How to perform: Set an incline bench at about 30 degrees and lie face-down holding light dumbbells. With a slight bend in the elbow, raise the dumbbells out to the side to shoulder height, leading with the elbow and maintaining a neutral wrist. Lower under control and keep tension on the middle deltoid throughout the set.

Muscles worked: shoulders (middle deltoid primary), trapezius and front deltoids (secondary). Common mistakes include swinging the weights, using too much momentum, or raising the arms too high which recruits the traps; proper form prioritizes slow control and consistent tension. Benefits include increased deltoid width and improved shoulder symmetry.