How to Perform L-Lateral Raises
L-lateral raise is a lateral raise variation, which works to tone and bulk up the shoulders. Like the traditional lateral raise, its main goal is to improve the deltoid muscles. But compared to the traditional lateral raise, L-lateral raise is easier to do but uses more weight. Whether you are a body builder or a simple folk who desires better shaped shoulders, you will greatly benefit from an L-lateral raise workout. This article will teach you how to do this.
- Get dumbbells. Remember that light weights are needed for this to prevent injuring or straining your shoulders. If you don’t have dumbbells, you can make use of any objects that will provide weight.
- Do the starting position. Hold your dumbbells in each hand, with arms on your side. Stand up straight and move your feet far apart. Bend your legs slightly. Relax. Inhale and exhale.
- Move your hands up. Raise your hands from the front to the side, moving your arms parallel to the shoulders. You should be able to bend your arms at 90 degrees to make an L. Remain standing straight. Remember to exhale while you raise your arms.
- Move your hands back to the side. Undo the L-shape of the arms and begin to lower them, moving your hands back to the starting position. Again, make sure to stand straight and keep your feet far apart.
- Repeat the L-lateral raises. Try to make at least four repetitions. Then add four more until you can make 12 repetitions. Make sure, however, not to strain your muscles by moving so fast. Take it easy. Execute the L-lateral raises slowly in your first few attempts. If you need to rest in between executions, please do so. And if you know you can’t move any further, then stop.
- Do the one-arm raise. The L-lateral raise can be done with both arms, but you can also try to raise one arm at a time. One-arm lateral raise allows you to focus on your movements and ultimately help you execute the workout more precisely. As you do the L-lateral raise with one arm, keep the other arm on the side. Do four repetitions or more. When you are done, do the L-lateral raise with your other arm.
- Regularly do the L-lateral raise. If you are serious about getting better shaped shoulders, remember to incorporate L-lateral raise into your regular workout. You can do either two-arm raise or one-arm raise, depending on your preference and goal. You can add more weight if your body is capable, but remember not to add more than what your body can accommodate.
When doing an L-lateral raise, make sure to observe proper posture. A proper posture will help you attain your goals and will prevent any muscle strain or injury. If you are not sure you are doing the L-lateral raise the right way, consult a fitness trainer. Remember that a guided workout will produce good results.
If you don’t have a trainer, you can try to watch video tutorials on the Internet.