Cable lateral raise
Cable lateral raise moves your arm out to the side and works the outside of your shoulders, with support from your upper back and the area around your ribs. It helps you build shoulder strength and control for everyday reaching. Despite its name, this version needs no equipment.
Videos
Like a lateral raise, this movement takes your arm away from your body to the side, with the emphasis on reaching outward rather than simply sending your hand upward. You should mainly feel the effort across the outside of your shoulder. Your upper back and the side of your ribcage may also feel involved as they support the movement.
The change is an outward-reaching emphasis in the arm path, rather than added resistance or different equipment. This keeps your attention on the outside of your shoulder and can make the intended path easier to understand. Pick this version when thinking about reaching away from your body feels clearer than thinking about lifting your arm.
Choose it when you want to build shoulder strength without needing gym equipment or floor space. The movement supports control when reaching to the side or handling light objects away from your body. It also suits home sessions or short movement breaks, provided lifting your arms sideways feels comfortable for your shoulders.
How to do it
Stand upright with your feet comfortably apart and your arms resting by your sides.
Bend one elbow slightly while keeping that arm close to your body.
Move that arm directly out to the side, reaching away from your body.
Continue outward until your arm is level with your shoulder.
Lower your arm back to your side along the same path.
Repeat the movement with your other arm to return to the starting position.