Skip to main content

Best Advanced Bicep And Shoulders Workouts With Dumbbells

About

Dumbbells serve as versatile tools for enhancing stability, as each hand maintains independent control over the weight, and exercises incorporating these weights often utilize less total load compared to their barbell counterparts.

Advanced exercises demand considerable experience, incorporating movements like combinations and complex exercises suitable for those with over four years of lifting experience, utilizing adjusted repetitions and weights corresponding to this skill level.

Key muscle groups like the shoulders (deltoids) and biceps often operate simultaneously, particularly in pulling movements that employ both groups effectively.

Targeting the deltoids specifically can involve overhead presses or raises, structuring the workout to engage the arm and shoulder musculature harmoniously.

The 15 Best Advanced Bicep and Shoulders Exercises with Dumbbells

Ranked By

Ranked based on Fitbod's internal data set of the most effective exercises. Learn More

  • 1. Arnold Dumbbell Press

    Arnold Dumbbell Press demonstration video — proper form for this exercise.
    SETS LOGGED
    2,297,498
    Shoulders Strength
    96 mScore
    Shoulders
    Photo of Dumbbells
    Dumbbells

    The Arnold Dumbbell Press is an exercise that mainly works your shoulders. It involves lifting dumbbells while rotating your palms, providing a more comfortable and effective movement compared to a regular shoulder press.

    How to do it

    1. Sit on a bench with a slight incline.
    2. Hold dumbbells at shoulder height with palms facing you.
    3. Keep your elbows close to your sides and shoulders back.
    4. Press the dumbbells overhead while rotating your palms to face away from you.
    5. Lower the dumbbells back to shoulder height, rotating your palms back to the starting position.
    Sets, Reps, Weight
    1
    8reps
    30lbs
    2
    8reps
    30lbs
    3
    8reps
    30lbs
  • 2. Dumbbell Front Raise

    Dumbbell Front Raise demonstration video — proper form for this exercise.
    SETS LOGGED
    5,823,163
    Shoulders Strength
    98 mScore
    Shoulders
    Photo of Dumbbells
    Dumbbells

    The Dumbbell Front Raise is an exercise that strengthens the front part of your shoulders. It helps build muscle and balance strength between both sides of your body using dumbbells.

    How to do it

    1. Stand upright holding a dumbbell in each hand at waist height, palms facing inward.
    2. Keep your arms slightly bent and lift the dumbbells in front of you to just above shoulder height.
    3. Lower the dumbbells back to waist height, maintaining a neutral back.
    Sets, Reps, Weight
    1
    8reps
    17.5lbs
    2
    8reps
    17.5lbs
    3
    8reps
    17.5lbs
  • 3. Dumbbell Rear Delt Raise

    Dumbbell Rear Delt Raise demonstration video — proper form for this exercise.
    SETS LOGGED
    4,323,992
    Shoulders Strength
    97 mScore
    Shoulders
    Photo of Dumbbells
    Dumbbells

    The Dumbbell Rear Delt Raise is an exercise for the shoulders, focusing on the rear deltoids. By leaning forward with your hips back, you can effectively work the muscles at the back of your shoulders.

    How to do it

    1. Stand with feet shoulder-width apart and hold a dumbbell in each hand.
    2. Bend your knees slightly and hinge forward at the hips until your torso is at a 90-degree angle.
    3. Keep your elbows bent and raise the dumbbells out to the sides until they reach shoulder height.
    4. Squeeze your shoulder blades together at the top of the lift and then lower the dumbbells back down slowly.
    Sets, Reps, Weight
    1
    8reps
    17.5lbs
    2
    8reps
    17.5lbs
    3
    8reps
    17.5lbs
  • 4. Dumbbell Shoulder Raise

    Dumbbell Shoulder Raise demonstration video — proper form for this exercise.
    SETS LOGGED
    3,935,648
    Shoulders Strength
    98 mScore
    Shoulders
    Photo of Dumbbells
    Dumbbells

    The Dumbbell Shoulder Raise is an exercise that focuses on strengthening the middle part of your shoulders. It helps improve muscle balance and can enhance shoulder strength by using dumbbells.

    How to do it

    1. Stand upright with your feet shoulder-width apart.
    2. Hold a dumbbell in each hand with your palms facing in at your hips.
    3. Tighten your core by breathing deeply and engaging your abs.
    4. With a slight bend in your elbows, raise the dumbbells to the sides until they reach shoulder height.
    5. Lower the dumbbells back to the starting position in a controlled manner.
    Sets, Reps, Weight
    1
    8reps
    17.5lbs
    2
    8reps
    17.5lbs
    3
    8reps
    17.5lbs
  • 5. Iron Cross

    Iron Cross demonstration video — proper form for this exercise.
    SETS LOGGED
    579,037
    Shoulders Strength
    85 mScore
    Shoulders
    Photo of Dumbbells
    Dumbbells

    The Iron Cross is a full-body exercise that works multiple muscle groups by combining an arm raise with a squat. It helps strengthen your shoulders and lower body while improving overall stability.

    How to do it

    1. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and slightly turned out.
    2. Hold a pair of dumbbells with your arms raised parallel to the floor.
    3. Keep your weight balanced as you squat down, bending your knees and pushing your hips back.
    4. Ensure your knees point slightly outward, aligned with your toes.
    5. Brace your core to keep your back straight throughout the movement.
    6. As you squat, bring your arms forward so your palms face each other.
    7. Return to the starting position and repeat the exercise.
    Sets, Reps, Weight
    1
    8reps
    15lbs
    2
    8reps
    15lbs
    3
    8reps
    15lbs
  • 6. Side Laterals to Front Raise

    Side Laterals to Front Raise demonstration video — proper form for this exercise.
    SETS LOGGED
    841,909
    Shoulders Strength
    87 mScore
    Shoulders
    Photo of Dumbbells
    Dumbbells

    The Side Laterals to Front Raise is an exercise that targets different parts of your shoulders. You lift weights out to the sides and then bring them in front to work your shoulder muscles more effectively.

    How to do it

    1. Stand with feet shoulder-width apart.
    2. Hold dumbbells at your hips with palms facing in.
    3. Engage your core and keep your back straight.
    4. Raise the dumbbells to the side until they're at shoulder height.
    5. Bring the weights together in front of you with arms extended.
    6. Lower the weights back down in a controlled manner.
    Sets, Reps, Weight
    1
    8reps
    17.5lbs
    2
    8reps
    17.5lbs
    3
    8reps
    17.5lbs
  • 7. Standing Dumbbell Shoulder Press

    Standing Dumbbell Shoulder Press demonstration video — proper form for this exercise.
    SETS LOGGED
    954,627
    Shoulders Strength
    92 mScore
    Shoulders
    Photo of Dumbbells
    Dumbbells

    The Standing Dumbbell Shoulder Press is an exercise that strengthens your shoulders using dumbbells. Standing while you do this adds balance challenges, engaging more muscles for stability.

    How to do it

    1. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and knees slightly bent.
    2. Hold a dumbbell in each hand at shoulder height.
    3. Press the dumbbells overhead by engaging your shoulders.
    4. Pause briefly at the top, then lower the weights back to shoulder level.
    5. Keep your core tight to protect your lower back.
    Sets, Reps, Weight
    1
    8reps
    22.5lbs
    2
    8reps
    22.5lbs
    3
    8reps
    22.5lbs
  • 8. Standing Single Arm Dumbbell Shoulder Press

    Standing Single Arm Dumbbell Shoulder Press demonstration video — proper form for this exercise.
    SETS LOGGED
    135,459
    Shoulders Strength
    86 mScore
    Shoulders
    Photo of Dumbbells
    Dumbbells

    The Standing Single Arm Dumbbell Shoulder Press works your shoulder muscles and helps improve stability by focusing on one side at a time. This standing exercise also engages your core for better posture and balance.

    How to do it

    1. Stand with feet hip-width apart and slightly bend your knees.
    2. Hold a dumbbell in one hand at head level, palm facing forward.
    3. Engage your core and keep your back straight.
    4. Press the dumbbell overhead using your shoulder muscle.
    5. Optionally, place your opposite hand on your hip for stability.
    6. Pause at the top, then slowly lower the dumbbell back to the starting position.
    7. Complete the desired number of reps, then switch sides and repeat.
    Sets, Reps, Weight
    1
    8reps
    25lbs
    2
    8reps
    25lbs
    3
    8reps
    25lbs
  • 9. Dumbbell Lateral Raise To Front Raise

    Dumbbell Lateral Raise To Front Raise demonstration video — proper form for this exercise.
    SETS LOGGED
    190,424
    Shoulders Strength
    91 mScore
    Shoulders
    Photo of Dumbbells
    Dumbbells

    The Dumbbell Lateral Raise to Front Raise is a shoulder exercise that combines two movements to effectively target the shoulder muscles. This workout helps strengthen your shoulders by raising the dumbbells both to the sides and in front of you.

    How to do it

    1. Hold a dumbbell in each hand at your sides, palms facing your legs.
    2. Stand with feet hip-width apart and slightly bend your knees.
    3. Keep your back straight and core engaged throughout the exercise.
    4. Raise the dumbbells out to the sides until your arms are parallel to the ground, palms facing down.
    5. Lower the dumbbells back to the starting position.
    6. Raise the dumbbells in front of you, rotating your wrists so that palms face down at the top.
    7. Lower the dumbbells back to the starting position.
    8. Repeat the lateral raise followed by the front raise to complete one repetition.
    Sets, Reps, Weight
    1
    8reps
    17.5lbs
    2
    8reps
    17.5lbs
    3
    8reps
    17.5lbs
  • 10. Dumbbell Standing Front Press

    Dumbbell Standing Front Press demonstration video — proper form for this exercise.
    SETS LOGGED
    129,056
    Shoulders Strength
    88 mScore
    Shoulders
    Photo of Dumbbells
    Dumbbells

    The Dumbbell Standing Front Press is a shoulder exercise done while standing. It strengthens your shoulders and improves your balance by engaging your core. Using dumbbells helps ensure both sides of your body work equally.

    How to do it

    1. Hold a dumbbell in each hand at shoulder height with palms facing you.
    2. Stand with feet hip-width apart and knees slightly bent.
    3. Keep your core tight and back straight while looking forward.
    4. Press the dumbbells overhead by extending your arms.
    5. Pause briefly at the top, then lower the dumbbells back to shoulder height.
    Sets, Reps, Weight
    1
    8reps
    22.5lbs
    2
    8reps
    22.5lbs
    3
    8reps
    22.5lbs
  • 11. Dumbbell Standing Single Arm Front Press

    Dumbbell Standing Single Arm Front Press demonstration video — proper form for this exercise.
    SETS LOGGED
    85,089
    Shoulders Strength
    85 mScore
    Shoulders
    Photo of Dumbbells
    Dumbbells

    The Dumbbell Standing Single Arm Front Press is an effective shoulder exercise that builds strength and stability. By pressing a dumbbell from in front of your shoulder, you engage not just your shoulder muscles but also your core for better balance and posture.

    How to do it

    1. Hold a dumbbell in one hand, with your palm facing outward and the dumbbell in front of your shoulder.
    2. Stand with your feet hip-width apart and slightly bend your knees.
    3. Engage your core, keep your back straight, and look straight ahead.
    4. Optionally, place your other hand on your hip for stability.
    5. Press the dumbbell overhead by straightening your arm, using your shoulder muscles.
    6. Pause briefly at the top, then lower the dumbbell back to the start position.
    7. Complete all reps on one side before switching to the other arm.
    Sets, Reps, Weight
    1
    8reps
    25lbs
    2
    8reps
    25lbs
    3
    8reps
    25lbs
  • 12. Dumbbell Cuban Shoulder Rotations

    Dumbbell Cuban Shoulder Rotations demonstration video — proper form for this exercise.
    SETS LOGGED
    92,391
    Shoulders Strength
    82 mScore
    Shoulders
    Photo of Dumbbells
    Dumbbells

    Dumbbell Cuban Shoulder Rotations strengthen and improve shoulder mobility, focusing on the rotator cuff. You hold dumbbells at shoulder level and rotate your arms forward for a full range of motion.

    How to do it

    1. Hold a dumbbell in each hand.
    2. Stand with feet hip-width apart and slightly bend your knees.
    3. Lower your shoulder blades back and down.
    4. Lift your elbows out to the sides, thumbs up, making a 'goalpost' shape.
    5. Rotate the dumbbells forward until your forearms are parallel to the floor, keeping a 90-degree angle at your shoulders and elbows.
    6. Pause in this position for a moment.
    7. Slowly return to the starting position, maintaining tension in your shoulders.
    8. Pause at the top for a moment before repeating.
    Sets, Reps, Weight
    1
    8reps
    17.5lbs
    2
    8reps
    17.5lbs
    3
    8reps
    17.5lbs
  • 13. Concentration Curl

    Concentration Curl demonstration video — proper form for this exercise.
    SETS LOGGED
    2,854,084
    Biceps Strength
    72 mScore
    Biceps
    Photo of Dumbbells
    Dumbbells

    The Concentration Curl is a simple exercise that strengthens the biceps by focusing solely on them. You sit down, brace your arm against your thigh, and lift a dumbbell to really engage the bicep without using other muscles.

    How to do it

    1. Sit at the edge of a bench with your knees bent and feet on the floor, shoulder-width apart.
    2. Extend your right arm between your legs and rest your elbow against your right thigh, holding a dumbbell with an outward-facing palm.
    3. Keep your elbow against your thigh as you lift the dumbbell to shoulder height, then lower it back to the starting position.
    Sets, Reps, Weight
    1
    8reps
    30lbs
    2
    8reps
    30lbs
    3
    8reps
    30lbs
  • 14. Dumbbell Bicep Curl

    Dumbbell Bicep Curl demonstration video — proper form for this exercise.
    SETS LOGGED
    10,161,709
    Biceps Strength
    99 mScore
    Biceps
    Photo of Dumbbells
    Dumbbells

    The Dumbbell Bicep Curl is a popular exercise that targets the biceps, helping to build strength and muscle. Using dumbbells allows for better control and range of motion, making it an effective choice for workouts.

    How to do it

    1. Stand upright and hold a dumbbell in each hand at your sides, palms facing you.
    2. Engage your core by breathing deeply and tightening your abdominal muscles.
    3. Flex your elbows to lift one dumbbell up towards your shoulder while keeping your elbow close to your side.
    4. As you lift, rotate your wrist so your palm faces your shoulder at the top of the curl.
    5. Lower the dumbbell back to the starting position by rotating your wrist back to palms-facing position.
    6. Once the first dumbbell is down, repeat the process with the other arm.
    Sets, Reps, Weight
    1
    8reps
    30lbs
    2
    8reps
    30lbs
    3
    8reps
    30lbs
  • 15. Hammer Curls

    Hammer Curls demonstration video — proper form for this exercise.
    SETS LOGGED
    8,921,793
    Biceps Strength
    98 mScore
    Biceps
    Photo of Dumbbells
    Dumbbells

    Hammer Curls are a bicep exercise that involve turning your wrists for a more natural grip. This helps target the long head of the bicep while building muscle and strength.

    How to do it

    1. Stand tall with your feet shoulder-width apart.
    2. Hold a dumbbell in each hand with your palms facing inward and arms at your sides.
    3. Engage your core by tightening your stomach muscles.
    4. Curl one dumbbell up to shoulder height while keeping your elbow close to your side.
    5. Lower the dumbbell back down to the starting position.
    6. Switch arms and repeat the movement.
    Sets, Reps, Weight
    1
    8reps
    30lbs
    2
    8reps
    30lbs
    3
    8reps
    30lbs

Alternative Workouts

Alternative Advanced Workouts with Dumbbells

Alternative Bicep and Shoulders Workouts with Dumbbells

Alternative Advanced Bicep and Shoulders Workouts