Dumbbell Front Raise: How-to, Tips & More
The Dumbbell Front Raise is a beginner isolation exercise for your shoulders. You do it with dumbbells. It is a good fit when your goal is muscle growth.
Besides the shoulders, it also works your upper chest, so it fits well in a session that trains those muscles together.
Muscles worked

Shoulders
Primary

Upper chest
Secondary
How to do the Dumbbell Front Raise
- Stand tall with a dumbbell in each hand in front of your thighs.
- Raise them with straight arms to shoulder height.
- Pause briefly.
- Lower slowly.
Dumbbell Front Raise tips
- Alternate arms if you want less strain on your lower back.
Sets and reps
Most lifters do well with 12 to 20 reps per set, and 12 to 20 reps is where this exercise tends to work best. Use a weight that leaves one or two reps in reserve on every set, and add weight once you can complete all your sets at the top of the range. It also works well in a superset with an exercise for the opposite muscles. You can finish with a drop set when you want extra volume.

Equipment
Dumbbells

Type
Isolation
Dumbbell Front Raise alternatives

Band Front Raise
Shoulders

Barbell Front Raise
Shoulders

Cable Front Raise
Shoulders

Plate Front Raise
Shoulders
More shoulders exercises

Alternating Dumbbell Shoulder Press
Dumbbells

Arm Circles
Bodyweight

Arnold Press
Dumbbells

Band External Rotation
Resistance band

Band Overhead Press
Resistance band

Barbell Overhead Press
Barbell
Frequently asked questions
What muscles does the Dumbbell Front Raise work?
The Dumbbell Front Raise mainly works your shoulders, with help from your upper chest.
How many sets and reps should I do?
A good starting point is 12 to 20 reps per set, and many lifters get the best results between 12 to 20 reps. Use a weight that leaves one or two reps in reserve.
Is the Dumbbell Front Raise good for beginners?
Yes. The Dumbbell Front Raise is considered beginner and is a good choice if you are new to training. Start light and focus on form.
What equipment do I need for the Dumbbell Front Raise?
You need dumbbells.

