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UpperBody Dumbell Exercise

56 min
 · 
18 exercises
Dumbbell Deadlifts
3 sets
20 reps
Dumbbell Flat Bench Press
3 sets
20 reps
Dumbbell Incline Bench Rows
3 sets
20 reps
Lateral Shoulder Dumbbell Raises
3 sets
20 reps
Dumbbell Overhead Shoulder Press
3 sets
20 reps
Dumbbell Pullovers
3 sets
20 reps
Decline Bench Dumbbell Press
3 sets
20 reps
Decline Dumbbell Flyes
3 sets
20 reps
Decline Lying Triceps Extension
3 sets
20 reps
Seated Arnold Dumbbell Press
3 sets
20 reps
Seated Dumbbell Concentration Curls
3 sets
20 reps
Seated Lateral Shoulder Dumbbell Raises
3 sets
20 reps
Dumbbell Shrugs
3 sets
20 reps
Dumbbell Squat Thrusters
3 sets
20 reps
Clap Push-ups
3 sets
20 reps
Front Shoulder Dumbbell Raises
3 sets
20 reps
Incline Bench Dumbbell Flyes
3 sets
20 reps
Incline Dumbbell Bench Chest Press
3 sets
20 reps
This UpperBody Dumbell Exercise 56 min-minute gym workout plan effectively targets your arms, back, chest and legs.... Easily follow this workout with confidence on your phone or printable exercise program with our clear exercise demonstrations. You can also look up step-by-step instructions for each of the 18 exercises and see which muscle groups they target. Enjoy!

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UpperBody Dumbell Exercise
56 min
 · 
18 exercises
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Dumbbell Deadlifts
3 sets
20 reps
Set 1 of 3
Rest before next set
Get ready
321GO
Primary muscle group(s):
Glutes & Hip Flexors, Lower Back
Secondary:
Abs, Calves, Hamstrings, Quadriceps
  1. Place two dumbbells on the floor.
  2. Stand facing the dumbbells with your feet shoulder width apart.
  3. Bend knees and hips to lower your torso in a squatting movement,keep your back straight.
  4. At the bottom of the squat grip the dumbbells with an overhand grip,keeping your arms fully extended.
  5. Return to an upright position holding the dumbbells with your palms facing towards your body and extending your hips forward. Do not round your back.
  6. Return the dumbbells to the floor in the same manner you picked them up.
  7. Repeat.
Primary muscle group(s):
Lower Back
Secondary:
Abs, Calves, Forearms, Glutes & Hip Flexors, Hamstrings, Quadriceps, Upper Back & Lower Traps
  1. Place a barbell in a clear space on the floor. (Make sure there are no obstructions in your way.
  2. Stand facing the barbell with your legs about 4-6 inches from the bar.
  3. Place your feet shoulder width apart.Your feet can be pointed straight ahead or turned outwards slightly.
  4. Squat down, keeping your back straight and grip the bar with an overhand grip at shoulder width.
  5. Keep your arms fully extended and stand up with the barbell.
  6. As you lift the barbell, your hips and shoulders should rise together and your back should be straight.
  7. As you reach the top of the lift and are standing straight, rotate your shoulders back slightly until you feel a slight stretch in them.
  8. Lower the barbell back to the floor in the same squatting motion you used to lift it.

This exercise can be very dangerous if performed incorrectly. If you are a novice, only perform this exercise with an experienced trainer's supervision.

Primary muscle group(s):
Glutes & Hip Flexors, Hamstrings
Secondary:
Lower Back
  1. Holding the handles of the resistance band, step on to the middle. Place your feet at shoulder-width with toes pointing forward. Tighten your core and keep your chest up.
  2. Bend your knees slightly and drive your hips back but NOT lower than your knees. Again, keep the chest up. This is the starting position.
  3. Forcefully contract your glutes, driving them forward. Do not just lean back. Your glutes should be fully contracted. Pause then return to the starting position.
Dumbbell Flat Bench Press
3 sets
20 reps
Set 1 of 3
Rest before next set
Get ready
321GO
Primary muscle group(s):
Chest
Secondary:
Abs, Shoulders, Triceps
  1. Lie on a flat bench holding a dumbbell in each hand with an overhand grip.
  2. Start by holding the dumbbells slightly wider than shoulder width apart above your shoulders. Your palms should be facing forward.
  3. Slowly bend your elbows until they are at a 90 degree angle and your upper arms are parallel to the ground.
  4. Push the weights up by straightening your arms.
  5. As you push the weights up, move your arms in an arc to bring the dumbbells together, until they meet over the center of your chest. Hold for a count of one.
  6. Lower the dumbbells by slowly bending your elbows back to 90 degrees.
  7. Continue lowering your arms until they are a little lower than parallel to the floor. (Your elbows should be pointing slightly towards the floor and you should feel a stretch in your chest muscles and shoulders.)
  8. Repeat

Be sure to concentrate on a balanced movement when lifting the dumbbells. Use both arms equally spaced and moving at the same speed.

Primary muscle group(s):
Chest
Secondary:
Shoulders, Triceps
  1. Position yourself with your back down on a flat bench placing the hands up on the bar using an underhand grip slightly wider than shoulder width apart.
  2. After taking a deep breath in, extend the elbows and lift the bar up off the rack until elbows are extended but not locked. Pause for a brief movement as you fully extend your breath.
  3. Lower the weight directly down to the chest as you breath inwards, keeping the movement pattern slow and steady.
  4. Once just above the chest, pause, and then press directly up again, exhaling your breath.
  5. Continue until all reps are completed and then re-rack the barbell.
Primary muscle group(s):
Chest
Secondary:
Abs, Shoulders, Triceps
  1. Sit on the seat with your upper chest just above the horizontal handles.
  2. Push the foot lever until you are able to grasp the lever.
  3. Gras the handles using a wide overhand grip and place your elbows out to the sides just below your shoulders.
  4. Release the foot lever and press the hand lever out until your arms are fully extended.
  5. Return the weight until your chest muscles are slightly stretched.
Primary muscle group(s):
Chest
Secondary:
Abs, Shoulders, Triceps
  1. Place a pair of dumbbells on the floor. Lie on your back in between the dumbbells. Bend your knees and move your feet towards your butt.
  2. Grab the dumbbells and hold them above you. Allow your upper arms to remain on the floor. Begin the movement by pushing the dumbbells over your chest. Pause at the top and squeeze your chest muscles.
  3. Slowly bring the weights down to the starting position, allowing your arms to rest for a brief moment before beginning the next repetition.
Primary muscle group(s):
Chest
Secondary:
Triceps
  1. Place a pair of water bottles on the floor. Lie on your back in between the water bottles. Bend your knees and move your feet towards your butt.
  2. Grab the water bottles and hold them above you. Allow your upper arms to remain on the floor. Begin the movement by pushing the water bottles over your chest. Pause at the top and squeeze your chest muscles.
  3. Slowly bring the water bottles down to the starting position, allowing your arms to rest for a brief moment before beginning the next repetition.
Dumbbell Incline Bench Rows
3 sets
20 reps
Set 1 of 3
Rest before next set
Get ready
321GO
Primary muscle group(s):
Lower Back, Middle Back / Lats
Secondary:
Biceps, Forearms, Shoulders
  1. Lean forward into an incline bench
  2. Using a neutral grip, hold a dumbbell in each hand so your palms are facing in.
  3. Your arms should be fully extended and hanging straight down. This is the start position.
  4. Pull your shoulder blades back and flex your elbows to pull the dumbbells up to your sides.
  5. Hold and squeeze your shoulder and back muscles.
  6. Return to the start position in a slow, controlled movement.
  7. Repeat.
Primary muscle group(s):
Lower Back
Secondary:
Abs, Biceps
  1. Stand tall with a tight core and flat back. Hold a pair of dumbbells at your side with an overhand grip. Bend slightly at the knees as you push your hips back. Keep your chest and head up. Upper body should be almost parallel with the floor.
  2. With your elbows at a 60-degree angle, bring the dumbbells up. Pause when your upper arm is parallel with the floor. Contract the muscle then slowly return the dumbbells to the starting point.
Primary muscle group(s):
Lower Back
Secondary:
Biceps, Shoulders, Upper Back & Lower Traps
  1. Connect a V-bar attachment to the low pulley on a cable station or cable rowing machine.
  2.  Sit down at the station and place your feet on the foot pads or crossbar provided, while keeping your knees slightly bent.
  3. Lean forward, keeping your back straight and grip the V-bar handles with both hands.
  4. Keeping your arms fully extended pull back until your torso is at a 90-degree angle from your legs.
  5. Your back should be slightly arched, with your chest should be pushed out. This is the start position.
  6. Keeping your torso stationary, pull the handles back towards you while squeezing your back muscles.
  7. Keep your arms close to your sides until your hands reach your abdomen. Exhale as you perform this movement.
  8. Hold for a count of one.
  9. Inhale as you return to the start position in a smooth movement.
  10. Repeat.

Do not swing or rock back and forth as you perform this exercise. Doing so can cause lower back injury. <strong></strong> You can perform this exercise using a straight bar instead of a V-Bar. You can use an underhand or overhand grip.

Primary muscle group(s):
Middle Back / Lats, Upper Back & Lower Traps
Secondary:
Biceps
  1. Stand tall with a tight core and flat back. Hold a pair of water bottles at your side with an overhand grip. Bend slightly at the knees as you push your hips back. Keep your chest and head up. Upper body should be almost parallel with the floor.
  2. With your elbows at a 60-degree angle, bring the water bottles up. Pause when your upper arm is parallel with the floor. Contract the muscle then slowly return the water bottles to the starting point.
Primary muscle group(s):
Middle Back / Lats
Secondary:
Abs, Biceps
  1. Begin the movement by stepping on to a resistance band with your feet at shoulder-width, toes pointed slightly out.
  2. Bend slightly at the knees and forward at the hips. Maintain a braced core and flat back throughout.
  3. Leading with your elbows, pull the handles of the resistance band back, bringing your shoulder blades closer together. Hold this contraction and slowly release to the starting position.
Lateral Shoulder Dumbbell Raises
3 sets
20 reps
Set 1 of 3
Rest before next set
Get ready
321GO
Primary muscle group(s):
Shoulders
  1. Stand with your back straight, feet shoulder width apart, while holding a dumbbell in each hand with a neutral grip.
  2. Hold your arms fully extended by your side, with your palms facing in to your body.
  3. Keep your elbows close to your sides. This is the start position.
  4. Keeping your arms fully extended and your torso stationary, lift the dumbbells out to your sides and up until they are at shoulder level. Exhale as you do so.
  5. Hold for a count of one while squeezing your shoulder muscles.
  6.  Return to the start position in a smooth controlled movement inhaling as you do so.
  7. Repeat.

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Primary muscle group(s):
Shoulders
Secondary:
Neck & Upper Traps
  1. Sit on a bench, holding a dumbbell in each hand. Your hands should be at your sides.
  2. Maintain a flat back and tight core. Look straight ahead during the movement.
  3. Be sure to maintain a slight bend in your elbows at all times.
  4. Extend your arms out to the side and guide the weight up. Your arms should come to parallel with the floor.
  5. Pause, slowly lower the weight back to the starting position. Repeat.
Primary muscle group(s):
Shoulders
Secondary:
Abs
  1. Place your left foot onto the middle of a resistance band. Step forward with the right. Tighten your abdominals and avoid arching your back.
  2. Maintaining a slight bend in the elbows at all times, slowly raise your arms up from the sides of your body. Be sure to favor the front as you lift.
  3. Once your arms reach parallel with the floor, pause, feel the contraction, and slowly lower back down.
Dumbbell Overhead Shoulder Press
3 sets
20 reps
Set 1 of 3
Rest before next set
Get ready
321GO
Primary muscle group(s):
Shoulders
Secondary:
Abs, Triceps, Upper Back & Lower Traps
  1. Sit on a military press bench or bench that has a back support, holding a dumbbell in each hand with an overhand grip.
  2. Place the dumbbells on top of your thighs with your palms facing down.
  3. Raise the dumbbells to your shoulders.
  4. Rotate your wrists so that the palms of your hands are facing away from you. This is the start position.
  5. As you exhale,  push the dumbbells up and over your head by extending your arms until the dumbbells touch at the top of the movement.
  6. Pause for a count of one.
  7. Slowly return to the start position inhaling as you do so.
  8. Repeat.

This exercise can be performed standing or sitting on  flat bench. For people with lower back problems, the version described is better.

Primary muscle group(s):
Chest, Shoulders
Secondary:
Triceps
  1. Holding a water bottle in each hand, stand straight, with your feet shoulder width apart.
  2. Raise the water bottles to head height by rotating your arms forward and up.
  3. Your triceps should be parallel to the floor and your elbows bent at 90 degrees. This is the start position.
  4. Keeping your back straight and using only your arms, extend through your shoulders and elbows to drive the water bottles straight up, exhaling as you do so.
  5. As your arms reach the fully extended position, bring them in towards each other until the water bottles touch lightly together.
  6. Hold for a count of one, while squeezing your shoulder muscles.
  7. In a controlled movement, return to the starting position, inhaling as you do so.
  8. Repeat.
Primary muscle group(s):
Shoulders
Secondary:
Abs
  1. Place your left foot onto the middle of a resistance band. Step forward with the right. Tighten your abdominals and avoid arching your back.
  2. Press the handles of the resistance band up and stop once your upper arms are parallel with the ground, making a scarecrow formation. The band should be behind your arms.
  3. Slowly press the resistance band overhead. Do not lock out the elbows. Lower to the starting position and begin again.
Dumbbell Pullovers
3 sets
20 reps
Set 1 of 3
Rest before next set
Get ready
321GO
Primary muscle group(s):
Chest, Upper Back & Lower Traps
Secondary:
Abs, Shoulders, Triceps
  1. Lie with your upper back perpendicular on a bench.
  2. Bend your knees and place your feet flat on the floor and flex your hips so that your body is in line.
  3. Grasp a dumbbell between your hands under the inner plate, palms facing up.
  4. Position the weight over your chest with your elbows slightly bent.
  5. Keep your elbows bent as you lower the dumbbell over your head until your upper arms are in line with your torso.
  6. To return to the starting position, pull the dumbbell up and over your chest.

Try to avoid raising your hips and maintain a small bend in your elbows throughout the movement.

Primary muscle group(s):
Abs, Chest, Shoulders, Upper Back & Lower Traps
Secondary:
Biceps, Forearms, Triceps
  • With slightly bent knees and a tight core, hold a medicine ball in front of you at hip-level.
  • Begin by raising the medicine ball upward above your head with both hands.
  • Keeping your elbows bent, forcefully throw the ball at the ground.
  • Catch the ball as it bounces back up, and bring it back up above your head.
  • Repeat this slam and catch movement.
Decline Bench Dumbbell Press
3 sets
20 reps
Set 1 of 3
Rest before next set
Get ready
321GO
Primary muscle group(s):
Chest
Secondary:
Shoulders, Triceps
  1. Sit on a decline bench and place your feet under the leg brace. Rest a dumbbell on each thigh.
  2. Grab hold of the dumbbells with an overhand grip and lie back on the bench.
  3. Position the dumbbells on either side of your chest. Your palms should face outwards and your arms should be bent under each weight.
  4. Slowly press the dumbbells up from the elbows until your arms are fully extended over your chest.
  5. Return to the starting position by lowering the dumbbells to either side of your chest again. You should feel a slight stretch in your chest and shoulders.
Primary muscle group(s):
Chest
Secondary:
Abs, Shoulders, Triceps
  1. Lie on a flat bench holding a dumbbell in each hand with an overhand grip.
  2. Start by holding the dumbbells slightly wider than shoulder width apart above your shoulders. Your palms should be facing forward.
  3. Slowly bend your elbows until they are at a 90 degree angle and your upper arms are parallel to the ground.
  4. Push the weights up by straightening your arms.
  5. As you push the weights up, move your arms in an arc to bring the dumbbells together, until they meet over the center of your chest. Hold for a count of one.
  6. Lower the dumbbells by slowly bending your elbows back to 90 degrees.
  7. Continue lowering your arms until they are a little lower than parallel to the floor. (Your elbows should be pointing slightly towards the floor and you should feel a stretch in your chest muscles and shoulders.)
  8. Repeat

Be sure to concentrate on a balanced movement when lifting the dumbbells. Use both arms equally spaced and moving at the same speed.

Primary muscle group(s):
Chest
Secondary:
Abs, Shoulders, Triceps
  1. Set up a bench or stable elevated surface. Begin with both hands on the bench at shoulder-width or just outside of shoulder-width.
  2. Place your feet straight behind you while you tighten your abs and engage the hips. Your hips should not dip or elevate too high during the movement.
  3. Slowly lower yourself towards the bench. Once your upper arms are parallel with the floor, pause, and return to the starting position.
Decline Dumbbell Flyes
3 sets
20 reps
Set 1 of 3
Rest before next set
Get ready
321GO
Primary muscle group(s):
Chest, Triceps
Secondary:
Abs, Shoulders
  1. Place a pair of dumbbells on the floor next to a decline bench. Secure yourself in the bench. Pick up dumbbells and hold them above you with a slight bend in the elbow.
  2. Keeping the dumbbells in line with your chest, slowly open up your arms to the sides.
  3. Stop when your upper arms are parallel with the floor.
  4. Squeeze your chest muscles and slowly return to starting position. Repeat.
Primary muscle group(s):
Chest
Secondary:
Shoulders, Triceps
  1. Adjust the pulley lever to be below you. Stand in the center of the pulley machine while holding both handles. Brace your abdominals and take a step forward.
  2. With your chest up, bring the handles up and to the front of your body. The handles will meet at shoulder height.
  3. Pause to feel the contraction in your chest then slowly lower the handles to the starting position.
Primary muscle group(s):
Chest
Secondary:
Abs, Shoulders, Triceps
  • Holding a pair of dumbbells, sit on a flat bench and slowly lower yourself back.
  • Keep a tight core as you push the dumbbells above your chest. The dumbbells will be facing one another and held together.
  • With a slight bend in the elbow, open up your chest and slowly lower the dumbbells to the sides.
  • When the dumbbells are parallel with the ground, pause, and return to the starting position.
Decline Lying Triceps Extension
3 sets
20 reps
Set 1 of 3
Rest before next set
Get ready
321GO
Primary muscle group(s):
Triceps
Secondary:
Abs, Shoulders
  1. Set up a decline bench to between 15 and 30 degrees. (The angle is not important, your comfort and form is.)
  2. Place the EZ bar on the rack at the foot of the bench.
  3. Sit on the bench and position your feet under the foot pads.
  4. Lean forward and grip the EZ bar with an overhand grip, shoulder width apart.
  5. Lift the bar from the rack. (Because of your position when doing this, I recommend getting a spotter to assist you)
  6. Lat flat on the bench holding the bar above your chest with your arms extended and elbows locked.
  7. Lower the EZ bar towards you by bending your arms toward you in a smooth arc. Your upper arms should not move.
  8. Continue lowering the bar until it is just above or gently touching your forehead. You should feel a stretch in your triceps.
  9. Hold and squeeze you triceps for a count of one.
  10. Return to the staring position by extending your arms in a smooth arc. (Again, your upper arms should not move)
  11. Repeat.

This exercise can be performed using a single dumbbell or a barbell.

Primary muscle group(s):
Triceps
Secondary:
Abs
  1. Holding a preacher curl barbell with an overhand grip, carefully sit on a bench. Slowly lie back and bring the barbell above your head. Make sure that your feet are flat on the floor and your core is braced.
  2. Keep the upper arms in place as you bend at the elbow and allow the forearms to slowly dip back towards your head.
  3. Once the barbell reaches the bottom, pause and slowly push the barbell back to the starting position.
Primary muscle group(s):
Triceps
Secondary:
Abs, Shoulders
  1. Lie flat on your back on a bench and position your feet flat on the floor on either side of the bench.
  2. With a dumbbell in each hand, extend your arms over head until fully extended. Your palms should face one another and your hands should be close together.
  3. Bend the elbows and lower the weights to either side of your head.
  4. Extend your arms to return to the starting position.
Primary muscle group(s):
Triceps
Secondary:
Abs
  1. Sit on a bench with back support.
  2. Grip a dumbbell at one end using both hands. Your palms should be facing inward.
  3. Hold the dumbbell overhead with your arms fully extended.  This is the the start position.
  4. Keep your upper arms close to your head (biceps roughly level with your temples) and near to 90degrees to the floor.
  5. Moving only your forearms, lower the dumbbell in a smooth arc behind your head until your forearms and biceps touch. Hold for a count of one.
  6. Return to the start position by using the triceps to extend your arm and raise the dumbbell. Exhale as you do this.
  7. Repeat.

This exercise can be performed standing. However, it places an extra strain on your back so is not recommended for people with lower back problems. You can also perform this exercise using an EZ bar or straight bar with a close grip behind your head, palms facing forward.

Seated Arnold Dumbbell Press
3 sets
20 reps
Set 1 of 3
Rest before next set
Get ready
321GO
Primary muscle group(s):
Shoulders
Secondary:
Biceps, Neck & Upper Traps, Triceps
  1. Begin by sitting on a flat bench. Hold the dumbbell at your side with an overhand grip. Tighten your core and flatten your back.
  2. Bring the dumbbells up to shoulder height so that your palm are facing you. Push the dumbbells overhead. Rotate them as you do so.
  3. At the height of the movement, your palms should be facing away from you. Pause, contract and slowly return to the starting point through the same rotation.
Primary muscle group(s):
Shoulders
Secondary:
Abs, Triceps, Upper Back & Lower Traps
  1. Sit on a military press bench or bench that has a back support, holding a dumbbell in each hand with an overhand grip.
  2. Place the dumbbells on top of your thighs with your palms facing down.
  3. Raise the dumbbells to your shoulders.
  4. Rotate your wrists so that the palms of your hands are facing away from you. This is the start position.
  5. As you exhale,  push the dumbbells up and over your head by extending your arms until the dumbbells touch at the top of the movement.
  6. Pause for a count of one.
  7. Slowly return to the start position inhaling as you do so.
  8. Repeat.

This exercise can be performed standing or sitting on  flat bench. For people with lower back problems, the version described is better.

Primary muscle group(s):
Chest, Shoulders
Secondary:
Triceps
  1. Holding a water bottle in each hand, stand straight, with your feet shoulder width apart.
  2. Raise the water bottles to head height by rotating your arms forward and up.
  3. Your triceps should be parallel to the floor and your elbows bent at 90 degrees. This is the start position.
  4. Keeping your back straight and using only your arms, extend through your shoulders and elbows to drive the water bottles straight up, exhaling as you do so.
  5. As your arms reach the fully extended position, bring them in towards each other until the water bottles touch lightly together.
  6. Hold for a count of one, while squeezing your shoulder muscles.
  7. In a controlled movement, return to the starting position, inhaling as you do so.
  8. Repeat.
Primary muscle group(s):
Shoulders
Secondary:
Abs
  1. Place your left foot onto the middle of a resistance band. Step forward with the right. Tighten your abdominals and avoid arching your back.
  2. Press the handles of the resistance band up and stop once your upper arms are parallel with the ground, making a scarecrow formation. The band should be behind your arms.
  3. Slowly press the resistance band overhead. Do not lock out the elbows. Lower to the starting position and begin again.
Seated Dumbbell Concentration Curls
3 sets
20 reps
Set 1 of 3
Rest before next set
Get ready
321GO
Primary muscle group(s):
Biceps
Secondary:
Forearms
  1. Sit on a flat bench with your legs spread, knees bent and your feet flat on the floor with a dumbbell between your feet.
  2. Use either arm to pick the dumbbell up and hold it with an underhand grip.
  3. Place the back of that upper arm on the top of your inner thigh on the same side. Your palm should be facing away from your thigh.
  4. Keep your arm fully extended downwards without letting the dumbbell rest on the floor. This is the start position.
  5. Curl the dumbbell forward and up in a smooth arc, contracting your biceps and exhaling.
  6. Continue curling the dumbbell upward until your biceps are fully contracted and the dumbbell is at shoulder level.  Hold for a count of one while squeezing your biceps.
  7. Return to the start position in a controlled, smooth arc inhaling as you do so. Do not swing the dumbbell down.
  8. Repeat for all the repetitions for that arm then switch and repeat the movement with your other arm.

Throughout this exercise, only your forearms should move. This exercise can be performed standing in a bent over position. Here there is no upper arm support so it's important to ensure there is no movement or swinging of the upper arm. This harder version of concentration curls isn't recommended for people who suffer lower back issues.

Primary muscle group(s):
Biceps
Secondary:
Abs, Forearms
  1. Set up an incline bench at 45 degrees.
  2. Holding a dumbbell in each hand, sit on the bench, keeping your shoulders and back firmly against the back rest.
  3. Put your arms down by your side with your palms facing in to your body.
  4. Slowly curl your arms up, rotating your wrist outwards (thumbs pointing away from your body) until the dumbbell is level with your shoulders. (Your palms should be facing your shoulders)
  5. Flex or squeeze your bicep at the top of the movement and hold for a count of one.
  6. Slowly lower the dumbbells back to the start position, turning your palms back in to your body. Repeat.

You can also perform this exercise using one arm at a time or by alternating your arms (Left, right, left, right...)

Primary muscle group(s):
Biceps
Secondary:
Forearms
  1. Set up a preacher curl bench making sure that the seat is set at the right height for you. The seat shouldn’t be so low that you need to raise your shoulders, or so high that you need to lean over the support pad.
  2. Rest you arms on the support pad with your triceps near the top and your elbows midway down the pad.
  3. Grip the EZ curl bar with an underhand grip at shoulder width.
  4. Curl the bar in towards your chin and upper chest in a single smooth arc. Hold for a count of one.
  5. Lower the bar by extending your arms back to the starting position.

This exercise is designed to isolate and focus attention on the biceps. Therefore, resistance is stronger at the start of each repetition. So when you begin each repetition, don't explode upwards too quickly!

Primary muscle group(s):
Biceps
Secondary:
Forearms
  1. Begin the movement by stepping on to a resistance band with your feet at shoulder-width, toes pointed slightly out.
  2. Holding the handles of the band in each hand, tighten your abdominals and straighten your lower back. Keep your chest up and gaze forward.
  3. Using an underhand grip or hammer fist grip, slowly pull the band towards your shoulders. Keep your upper arm in place, moving only your forearms.
  4. Once you reach the top of the movement, pause, and slowly lower the band to the starting position. Do not lock out your elbows.
Primary muscle group(s):
Biceps
Secondary:
Forearms
  1. Holding a water bottle in each hand, stand with your feet shoulder width apart.
  2. Let your arms hang by your side with your palms facing in to the side of your body.
  3. Keep your elbows close to your sides.
  4. Curl the water bottles up towards your shoulders. Do not swing your hips to get the weight moving.
  5. Continue raising the water bottles until they are level with your shoulders with your palms facing in. Your forearm should be in a vertical position.
  6. Squeeze or flex your bicep and hold for a count of one.
  7. Slowly lower the water bottles to the starting position.
Seated Lateral Shoulder Dumbbell Raises
3 sets
20 reps
Set 1 of 3
Rest before next set
Get ready
321GO
Primary muscle group(s):
Shoulders
Secondary:
Neck & Upper Traps
  1. Sit on a bench, holding a dumbbell in each hand. Your hands should be at your sides.
  2. Maintain a flat back and tight core. Look straight ahead during the movement.
  3. Be sure to maintain a slight bend in your elbows at all times.
  4. Extend your arms out to the side and guide the weight up. Your arms should come to parallel with the floor.
  5. Pause, slowly lower the weight back to the starting position. Repeat.
Primary muscle group(s):
Shoulders
  • Sit in the lateral raise machine while keeping your core tight and back flat.
  • Grab and secure the handles of the machine.
  • Slowly, extend your arms up and out to the side.
  • Feel the tension in your shoulders, pause at the top, and slowly return to the starting position.
  • Do not allow the weight stack to touch.
  • Repeat the movement.
Primary muscle group(s):
Shoulders
Secondary:
Abs
  1. Place your left foot onto the middle of a resistance band. Step forward with the right. Tighten your abdominals and avoid arching your back.
  2. Maintaining a slight bend in the elbows at all times, slowly raise your arms up from the sides of your body. Be sure to favor the front as you lift.
  3. Once your arms reach parallel with the floor, pause, feel the contraction, and slowly lower back down.
Primary muscle group(s):
Shoulders
  1. Hold one dumbbell at each side of your body. Keep your back straight and your knees ever-so-slightly bent.
  2. Raise one dumbbell out to the side, keeping your arm slightly bent. Once the dumbbell reaches the same level as your ear slowly lower it back down to the starting position.
  3. Repeat the same movement on the opposite side.
Dumbbell Shrugs
3 sets
20 reps
Set 1 of 3
Rest before next set
Get ready
321GO
Primary muscle group(s):
Shoulders
  1. Stand with your feet shoulder width apart and a dumbbell in each hand.
  2. Keep your arms extended and by your sides and with your palms facing in.
  3. Relax your shoulders so they hang as low as possible.
  4. Raise the dumbbells by slowly lifting your shoulders in a shrugging motion. Hold for a count of one.
  5. Slowly relax your shoulders to return to the start position.
  6. Repeat.

You can also rotate your shoulders in a circular movement during this exercise. One direction on the lift, the opposite direction when lowering to the start position.

Primary muscle group(s):
Neck & Upper Traps
Secondary:
Shoulders, Upper Back & Lower Traps
  1. Place your feet shoulder width apart and using an overhand grip at a little more than shoulder width, hold a barbell in front of you.
  2. Your arms should be fully extended towards the floor, palms facing in towards your thighs. This is the start position.
  3. Exhale and raise or shrug your shoulders up in a slow controlled movement. Do not use your biceps to assist in lifting the barbell.
  4. Continue as high as possible then hold for a count of one.
  5. Return to the start position in a smooth movement, inhaling as you do so.
  6. Pause then repeat.

You can rotate your shoulders when performing this exercise. However this is not recommended for people with shoulder problems.

Dumbbell Squat Thrusters
3 sets
20 reps
Set 1 of 3
Rest before next set
Get ready
321GO
Primary muscle group(s):
Quadriceps, Shoulders
Secondary:
Abs, Glutes & Hip Flexors, Hamstrings, Neck & Upper Traps, Triceps
  1. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart with dumbbells above your shoulders.
  2. Squat down keeping your back flat and your knees over your toes.
  3. Push through your heels to return to standing while pressing the dumbbells overhead with arms fully extended.
  4. Return to starting position and repeat.
Primary muscle group(s):
Quadriceps, Shoulders
Secondary:
Abs, Calves, Glutes & Hip Flexors, Hamstrings, Neck & Upper Traps, Triceps
  1. Clean two kettlebells to your shoulders. Clean the kettlebells to your shoulders by extending through the legs and hips as you pull the kettlebells towards your shoulders. Rotate your wrists as you do so. This will be your starting position.
  2. Begin to squat by flexing your hips and knees, lowering your hips between your legs. Maintain an upright, straight back as you descend as low as you can.
  3. At the bottom, reverse direction and stand by extending your knees and hips and pushing down through your heels. As you do so, press both kettlebells overhead by extending your arms straight up, using the momentum from the squat to help drive the weights upward.
  4. As you begin the next repetition, return the weights to the shoulders.
Primary muscle group(s):
Glutes & Hip Flexors, Quadriceps, Shoulders
Secondary:
Hamstrings, Lower Back
  • With water bottles at your sides, stand with your feet slightly wider than shoulder-width apart and feet pointing slightly outward. Look straight ahead.
  • Squat down until your upper legs are parallel with the floor by bending your knees, keep your back straight.
  • With an explosive but controlled movement, push up through your heels and press the water bottles above your head as you return to standing position.
  • Still standing, slowly lower the water bottles down to your chest and then down to your sides by extending your arms.
  • Repeat.
Clap Push-ups
3 sets
20 reps
Set 1 of 3
Rest before next set
Get ready
321GO
Primary muscle group(s):
Chest
Secondary:
Abs, Shoulders, Triceps
  1. Weight will be held up by your hands and feet. Hands should be slightly wider than shoulder-width. Core is tight and back is flat. Lower yourself down keeping perfect form.
  2. Explosively push yourself up, extending your elbows. While your hands are off the ground, clap them together.
  3. Return your hands to the ground just outside shoulder-width. Lower yourself back to the starting position.
Primary muscle group(s):
Chest
Secondary:
Abs, Shoulders, Triceps
  1. Get into position by placing your hands flat on the floor, directly below your shoulders.
  2. Extend your legs out behind you, with only your toes and balls of your feet touching the floor.
  3. Hold your body up and keep your back straight by tightening your abdominal muscles.
  4. Your neck and head should be bent slightly back.
  5. Lower your chest towards the ground by bending your elbows until your chest is just above the ground or you feel a stretching of your chest and shoulders. Hold for a count of one.
  6. Press upwards from your chest and shoulders, straightening your arms as you return to the starting position. Hold for a count of one.
  7. Repeat.
Front Shoulder Dumbbell Raises
3 sets
20 reps
Set 1 of 3
Rest before next set
Get ready
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Primary muscle group(s):
Shoulders
Secondary:
Abs
  1. Stand straight holding a dumbbell in each hand with an overhand grip.
  2. Hold the dumbbells in in front of your thighs with your palms of the facing your thighs. Keep your arms fully extended. This is the start position.
  3. Raise the left dumbbell out and upwards, while keeping a slight bend in your elbow. Your palms must always face down for this exercise.
  4. Continue raising the dumbbell until you arm is a little above parallel to the floor. Exhale as you are raising the dumbbell.
  5. Pause for a count of one.
  6. Inhale and slowly lower the dumbbell to the start position.
  7. As you lower the left dumbbell, begin to lift the right dumbbell, duplicating the movement.
  8. When both dumbbells have been raised and lowered in a cycle, that is one repetition.
  9. Repeat.

This exercise can be performed using both arms at the same time and also by substituting a barbell for the two dumbbells.

Primary muscle group(s):
Shoulders
  1. Holding the handle of a resistance band in each hand, step on the middle of the band with both feet. Stand up straight with a tight core and flat back.
  2. Begin by lifting your hands straight up in front of you with an overhand grip. Be sure to keep a slight bend in the elbows at all times.
  3. Pause at the top to feel the contraction then slowly lower the bands to the starting position.
Primary muscle group(s):
Shoulders
Secondary:
Abs, Upper Back & Lower Traps
  1. Place a light-weighted barbell in front of you at your shins.
  2. Squat down into position, driving your hips back. Keep your chest and head up. Place your hands in an overhand grip on the barbell.
  3. Stand up with a tight core and flat back. Keeping a slight bend in the elbows, raise the bar up and in front of you. Pause when your arms are parallel with the ground.
  4. Slowly lower the barbell to your hip. Repeat the movement.
Primary muscle group(s):
Shoulders
  1. Sit on a bench/chair with your back straight and your arms straight along your sides with the dumbbells help in an overhand grip.
  2. Bring both dumbbells up in front of your body, keeping only a slight bend at your elbow.
  3. Raise the dumbbells until they are both at about eye level and be sure to brace your core and keep your back supported by the bench/chair.  
  4. Lower the dumbbells back down to your sides, and prepare for that next rep!
Primary muscle group(s):
Abs, Shoulders
Secondary:
Upper Back & Lower Traps
  1. Stand tall with a tight core and flat back. Hold a weight plate, dumbbell or kettlebell with both hands in front of your hips. Be sure to use an overhand grip. You can also use a resistance band secured under your feet. Your feet should be shoulder-width apart.
  2. With a slight bend in the elbows, raise the weight plate up and in front of you. Pause and squeeze the shoulders when you reach chest level.
  3. Slowly lower the plate to the starting position, immediately moving into the next repetition.
Incline Bench Dumbbell Flyes
3 sets
20 reps
Set 1 of 3
Rest before next set
Get ready
321GO
Primary muscle group(s):
Chest
Secondary:
Abs, Shoulders
  1. Set up an incline bench at about 30 degrees.
  2. Lie on the bench and hold a dumbbell in each hand with an overhand grip.
  3. Make sure you keep your back flat and your shoulders pushed back
  4. Turn your hands in so that your palms are facing each other, holding the dumbbells over your chest with your elbows slightly bent and pointing outwards. (As if you are hugging someone)
  5. Lower the dumbbells out to the side of your shoulders, while keeping your elbows slightly bent in a smooth arcing motion.
  6. Continue lowering them until you feel a stretch in your chest and shoulders. Pause for a count of one.
  7. Bring the dumbbells back to the starting position in the same smooth arc with your elbows slightly bent until the dumbbells are nearly touching.
  8. Repeat
Primary muscle group(s):
Chest
Secondary:
Abs, Shoulders, Triceps
  • Holding a pair of dumbbells, sit on a flat bench and slowly lower yourself back.
  • Keep a tight core as you push the dumbbells above your chest. The dumbbells will be facing one another and held together.
  • With a slight bend in the elbow, open up your chest and slowly lower the dumbbells to the sides.
  • When the dumbbells are parallel with the ground, pause, and return to the starting position.
Primary muscle group(s):
Chest
Secondary:
Shoulders, Triceps
  1. Sit on a pec deck machine with your back flat against the back rest.
  2. Grip the handles and make sure your arms are parallel to the floor. If not parallel,adjust the seat or handles accordingly. This is the start position.
  3. Exhale and slowly push the handles together  squeezing your chest to the middle as you do so. Hold for a count of one.
  4. Inhale as you return to the starting position in a controlled movement.
  5. Repeat.

This exercise can be performed using an exercise band or pulleys. There are a variety of  different machines with different placement of your forearms. With these,  place your forearms on the pad, with your elbow bent to 90 degrees. Perform the exercise by squeezing your elbows together.

Primary muscle group(s):
Chest
Secondary:
Abs, Shoulders, Triceps
  1. Stand between two cable stations with the dumbbell grip handles attached to the high pulleys on each side of you.
  2. Hold the handles with an overhand grip. Your arms should be outstretched.
  3. Bend your knees and hips slightly so that you are leaning forward, but not too far.
  4. Bend your elbows slightly and rotate your shoulders in towards the centre of your chest a little. Your elbows should be slightly behind you.
  5. Use a hugging motion, keeping your elbows in a fixed, bent position to bring the grip attachments together in front of your chest.
  6. Slowly return to the starting position until you feel a slight stretch in your chest muscles.
  7. Repeat.
Incline Dumbbell Bench Chest Press
3 sets
20 reps
Set 1 of 3
Rest before next set
Get ready
321GO
Primary muscle group(s):
Chest
Secondary:
Abs, Shoulders, Triceps
  1. Set up an incline bench so the back rest is at about a 45 degree angle.
  2. Hold a dumbbell in each hand with an overhand grip. (Palms facing away from you)
  3. Sit on the bench with your feet flat on the floor and your back and shoulders pressed firmly back against the back rest.
  4. Raise the dumbbells up to your shoulder level, keeping your elbows bent at 90 degrees.
  5. Push the dumbbells up and away from you using your shoulders and chest while straightening your arms.
  6. Continue raising the dumbbells until your arms are straight and the dumbbells are suspended above your chest. Hold for a count of one.
  7. Lower the dumbbells back towards your chest by relaxing your chest and shoulders while bending your elbows.
  8. Hold for a count of one
  9. Repeat.
Primary muscle group(s):
Chest
Secondary:
Abs, Shoulders, Triceps
  1. Set up an incline bench in front of a weight rack, making sure you adjust the incline to a comfortable position. The back of the bench should be facing the weight stack.
  2. Sit on the bench placing your back firmly against the backrest.
  3. Using an overhand grip, grasp the bar with your hands spaced about twice your shoulder width apart.
  4. Lift the bar from the rack by pushing up with your chest muscles and hold it straight over your chest with your arms fully extended. This is the start position.
  5. As you inhale, lower the barbell slowly until it touches your upper chest.
  6. Hold for a count of one while squeezing your chest muscles.
  7. Return to the start position as you exhale, pushing the bar using your chest muscles. Hold for a count of one.
  8. Repeat.

If you are new at this exercise, you should use a spotter. If there is no-one available to spot for you, be conservative with the amount of weight you use. Do not let the bar drift too far forward. The bar to should touch down on your chest only. When performing this exercise, you should use a 2:1:1 count. That is a count of two on the downward movement. A count of one to hold and squeeze.a count of one for the upward movement.

Primary muscle group(s):
Chest
Secondary:
Abs, Shoulders, Triceps
  1. Stand between two cable stations with the dumbbell grip handles attached to the high pulleys on each side of you.
  2. Hold the handles with an overhand grip. Your arms should be outstretched.
  3. Bend your knees and hips slightly so that you are leaning forward, but not too far.
  4. Bend your elbows slightly and rotate your shoulders in towards the centre of your chest a little. Your elbows should be slightly behind you.
  5. Use a hugging motion, keeping your elbows in a fixed, bent position to bring the grip attachments together in front of your chest.
  6. Slowly return to the starting position until you feel a slight stretch in your chest muscles.
  7. Repeat.
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