Moving onto day 6 of the Art Of Body Sculpting 33 Day Challenge, we’re going to improve your focus on the lateral aspect of your deltoid muscle with 1 arm Lateral Raises.
If you are new to the challenge, please visit the introduction page for complete details and rules.
The way most people perform lateral raises places more tension on the anterior (front) deltoid instead of the lateral aspect of the deltoid. Here’s how to correct that problem…
The first step is to finish the movement with your thumb pointing downward. This simple adjustment in form will now place the lateral aspect of your deltoid on top in the fully contracted position. The way most people finish the lateral raise exercise is with their thumb pointing upward, which causes most of the tension to be placed on the anterior aspect of the deltoid.
Experiment with various grip strengths. Can you place more emphasis on your deltoid by simply squeezing the dumbbell harder?
How about the force of the movement. Can you direct the force both upward and away from you? Does that cause more tension on your deltoid?
Do you notice that your shoulder tends to shrug up a bit as you fatigue? Does this cause more tension in your trapezius muscles?
Focus on relaxing your upper back between the shoulder blades and relaxing your trapezius muscles. Enhance your mind-muscle connection so it’s your deltoid performing most of the work.
With single arm Dumbbell Raises you can grab onto a poll and lean your body away from the machine. This will produce more tension throughout a greater portion of the exercise.
Have fun experimenting today and be sure to report back with your experiences.
Sculpt a Masterpiece,
Scott Tousignant
About The Author
Scott Tousignant, BHK, is a Certified Fitness Consultant with a passion for transforming fitness enthusiasts goal driven, dedicated, and voracious physique artists who take pride in their body, fitness, health, and lifestyle. Embraced by physique artists around the world, his Metabolic Masterpiece Body Sculpting Programs will guide you through the process of sculpting your body into a work of art, by applying what Scott has coined, The A.T.T.R.A.C.T. Formula.
With his synergistic, boredom busting body sculpting workouts you will melt stubborn fat and gain muscle while skyrocketing your metabolism!
The art of molding and chiseling an aesthetically pleasing physique with ideal proportions and spectacular symmetry is one of life’s most rewarding and fulfilling experiences. It’s an opportunity for self growth and self discovery that will impact every area of your life.