Exercise, both cardio and weight training, is essential and it’s important that we get at least 150 minutes of physical activity per week to maintain our health.
For most of us, however, working out is more than an attempt to improve ourselves on the inside. Most of us have goals in terms of physical appearance as well. And there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that!
If you’re interested in improving the appearance of your upper body, you’ve come to the right place. Listed below are a few of the best dumbbell exercises for arms and shoulders that you can use to tone these muscles without a gym membership or any expensive equipment.
- Lateral Raise
Lateral raises make for the perfect shoulder workout with dumbbells at home. They can be done in a standing or seated position, depending on your preference and comfort level.
Regardless of the position you choose, keep your back straight, engage your core, and lift your arms out to the sides, one dumbbell in each hand. Don’t straighten your arms completely. Instead, keep your elbows at a slight bend as you go. Lower your arms back down to your side and you’ve done one rep.
- Biceps Curl
The biceps curl is the most basic of all arm exercises and can also be done in a seated or standing position. Whether you’re seated or standing, keep your spine in alignment at all times.
With your arms at your sides and your palms facing forward, bend your elbows as you bring the dumbbells up toward your shoulders. Lower your arms down to the starting position and repeat.
For all of these exercises, it’s a good idea to have a set of adjustable dumbbells. You can start with the lightest weight possible if you need to, then work your way to heavier weight as you build muscle and strength.
- Upright Row
Among the best shoulder exercises at home is the upright row. Typically, you’d need a machine to complete a set of rows, but this variation requires only dumbbells.
Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart with your arms resting in front of you. With a dumbbell in each hand, lift your arms while bending your elbows until the dumbbells reach your chest. Using control, lower your arms back to your waist. That’s one rep.
- Overhead Extension
The overhead extension targets your triceps. Instead of using a dumbbell in each hand, you’ll only be working with one. Start by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart, holding the dumbbell with both hands with your arms above your head.
While your upper arms remain by your ears, lower the weight behind your head. Take a deep breath, then straighten your arms back to their starting position and repeat.
Add Dumbbell Exercises for Arms and Shoulders to Your Fitness Routine
Who doesn’t want to look fantastic in a tank top? With these dumbbell exercises for arms and shoulders, you’ll not only look great but you’ll feel great as well. Once you experience the benefits of weight lifting, you’ll never want to stop.
Looking for more ways to improve your health and fitness? Be sure to check out our blog!
