Skip to main content
SisuLift
Skip to main content
§ L · Exercises · ShouldersUpdated 6/2026

Dumbbell Alternate Shoulder Press

The Dumbbell Alternate Shoulder Press builds shoulder strength and improves shoulder stability through unilateral loading.

Muscle group
Shoulders
Equipment
Dumbbell
Exercise type
Compound
Technique
Moderate technique

Muscles worked

§ 01 · Muscles
Primary muscle
Shoulders
Supporting muscles
Triceps

How to perform

§ 02 · Steps
  1. 01

    Sit or stand holding dumbbells at shoulder height with your palms facing forward and your wrists in a neutral position.

  2. 02

    Brace your core, keep your ribs down, and squeeze your glutes to keep your body stable.

  3. 03

    Press one dumbbell overhead in a controlled motion until your arm is almost straight, keeping your shoulder down without shrugging.

  4. 04

    Lower the dumbbell back to shoulder height and repeat with the other arm, alternating sides. Maintain a consistent range of motion and tempo.

How to get started at the gym

§ 03 · SisuLift

Dumbbell Alternate Shoulder Press is ready to go in the SisuLift exercise library. The app builds you a program, suggests starting weights and shows this same animation during your workout at the gym.

  • ·A ready training program based on your goal
  • ·Starting weight suggestions and automatic progression
  • ·Set logging and rest timer at the gym
Download on the App StoreGet it on Google Play
SisuLift app workout view

Tips

§ 04 · Tips

Keep your elbow slightly forward and the dumbbell directly over your wrist to maintain stability throughout the movement. Avoid overextending your lower back by keeping your core braced throughout the entire set.

The Dumbbell Alternate Shoulder Press builds shoulder strength and improves shoulder stability through unilateral loading.

More exercises: Shoulders

§ 05 · Same muscles

Ready to start?

Your next personal record is waiting.

No commitment. No card. 14 days, and you decide yourself if it fits.