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Best Shoulders Workouts To Get Lean And Burn Fat

About

This shoulder-focused workout is designed to help you achieve a lean physique and effectively burn fat.

By engaging in routines that maintain an elevated heart rate through a blend of resistance training and cardiovascular activity, you'll strengthen the deltoid muscles while promoting overall fat loss.

The exercises include movements such as overhead presses and straight arm raises, targeting the muscle group responsible for controlling shoulder movement and supporting upper body functionality.

By utilizing lower weights with higher repetitions, this approach efficiently combines muscle toning with calorie-burning benefits.

The 15 Best Shoulders Exercises to Get Lean and Burn Fat

Ranked By

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

  • 1. 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
    15lbs
    2
    8reps
    15lbs
    3
    8reps
    15lbs
  • 2. 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
    15lbs
    2
    8reps
    15lbs
    3
    8reps
    15lbs
  • 3. Dumbbell Shoulder Press

    Dumbbell Shoulder Press demonstration video — proper form for this exercise.
    SETS LOGGED
    6,772,064
    Shoulders Strength
    99 mScore
    Shoulders
    Photo of Dumbbells
    Dumbbells
    Photo of Flat Bench
    Flat Bench

    The Dumbbell Shoulder Press is an exercise that focuses on strengthening the shoulders. Using dumbbells helps engage stabilizing muscles and can improve balance between both sides of the body.

    How to do it

    1. Sit on a bench with your back straight.
    2. Hold a dumbbell in each hand, just outside shoulder-width, palms facing forward.
    3. Bend your elbows and keep them close to your sides.
    4. Press the dumbbells overhead until your arms are fully extended, keeping your wrists straight.
    5. Lower the dumbbells back to the starting position.
    Sets, Reps, Weight
    1
    8reps
    30lbs
    2
    8reps
    30lbs
    3
    8reps
    30lbs
  • 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
    15lbs
    2
    8reps
    15lbs
    3
    8reps
    15lbs
  • 5. Arnold Dumbbell Press

    Arnold Dumbbell Press demonstration video — proper form for this exercise.
    SETS LOGGED
    2,297,498
    Shoulders Strength
    96 mScore
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    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
    25lbs
    2
    8reps
    25lbs
    3
    8reps
    25lbs
  • 6. Barbell Shoulder Press

    Barbell Shoulder Press demonstration video — proper form for this exercise.
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    Shoulders Strength
    96 mScore
    Shoulders
    Photo of Barbells
    Barbells

    The Barbell Shoulder Press is a strength exercise that mainly works your shoulder muscles. It helps improve your ability to lift weight overhead with stability and strength.

    How to do it

    1. Stand with the barbell at shoulder height and grab it with your hands shoulder-width apart.
    2. Bend your knees slightly and lower yourself to place the bar on your upper chest.
    3. Position your elbows under the bar so your forearms are straight up and palms face forward.
    4. Lift the barbell straight up until your arms are fully extended, keeping it aligned with your ears.
    5. Lower the barbell back to your chest to repeat the exercise.
    Sets, Reps, Weight
    1
    8reps
    50lbs
    2
    8reps
    50lbs
    3
    8reps
    50lbs
  • 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
    20lbs
    2
    8reps
    20lbs
    3
    8reps
    20lbs
  • 8. Front Plate Raise

    Front Plate Raise demonstration video — proper form for this exercise.
    SETS LOGGED
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    Shoulders Strength
    83 mScore
    Shoulders
    Photo of Barbells
    Barbells

    The Front Plate Raise is a great exercise to strengthen the front of your shoulders. By using a weight plate, you can effectively work your anterior deltoids while keeping the movement smooth and controlled.

    How to do it

    1. Stand upright and hold the sides of a weight plate in front of your waist.
    2. Keep your arms slightly bent and raised the plate to just above shoulder height.
    3. Lower the plate back to the starting position, maintaining a neutral back throughout.
    Sets, Reps, Weight
    1
    8reps
    30lbs
    2
    8reps
    30lbs
    3
    8reps
    30lbs
  • 9. 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
    12.5lbs
    2
    8reps
    12.5lbs
    3
    8reps
    12.5lbs
  • 10. Kettlebell Upright Row

    Kettlebell Upright Row demonstration video — proper form for this exercise.
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    Shoulders Strength
    95 mScore
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    Photo of Kettlebells
    Kettlebells

    The Kettlebell Upright Row targets your shoulders and improves muscle activation by allowing you to pull the kettlebell in different directions. It's a great way to build strength in your upper body while using a kettlebell.

    How to do it

    1. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart.
    2. Hold the kettlebell handle with both hands using an overhand grip.
    3. Pull your elbows up past your shoulders, keeping the kettlebell close until it reaches your upper chest.
    4. Lower the kettlebell back to the start position in a controlled manner.
    Sets, Reps, Weight
    1
    8reps
    25lbs
    2
    8reps
    25lbs
    3
    8reps
    25lbs
  • 11. Landmine Press

    Landmine Press demonstration video — proper form for this exercise.
    SETS LOGGED
    206,388
    Shoulders Strength
    88 mScore
    Shoulders
    Photo of Barbells
    Barbells
    Photo of Landmine
    Landmine

    The Landmine Press is an exercise that strengthens your shoulders. By using a landmine, you can press the weight up and forward, which helps improve strength for sports and everyday activities.

    How to do it

    1. Stand with the barbell perpendicular to your body.
    2. Place your feet shoulder-width apart, holding the end of the barbell in front of your chest with both hands.
    3. Grip the bar with your palms facing each other and elbows close to your sides.
    4. Brace your core and press the bar upward and forward.
    5. Lower the bar back to the starting position and repeat.
    Sets, Reps, Weight
    1
    8reps
    45lbs
    2
    8reps
    45lbs
    3
    8reps
    45lbs
  • 12. Machine Lateral Raise

    Machine Lateral Raise demonstration video — proper form for this exercise.
    SETS LOGGED
    561,098
    Shoulders Strength
    92 mScore
    Shoulders
    Photo of Shoulder Shrug Machine
    Shoulder Shrug Machine

    The Machine Lateral Raise is a shoulder exercise done on a machine that provides support and stability. It helps you focus on strengthening your shoulders in a controlled way.

    How to do it

    1. Sit facing the machine with your arms resting on the pads.
    2. Keep your chest up and back straight.
    3. Lift your arms out to the side until they are level with the floor.
    4. Pause briefly, then lower your arms back to the starting position.
    Sets, Reps, Weight
    1
    8reps
    35lbs
    2
    8reps
    35lbs
    3
    8reps
    35lbs
  • 13. Machine Shoulder Press

    Machine Shoulder Press demonstration video — proper form for this exercise.
    SETS LOGGED
    1,196,498
    Shoulders Strength
    94 mScore
    Shoulders
    Photo of Shoulder Press Machine
    Shoulder Press Machine

    The Machine Shoulder Press is a safe and effective exercise that targets your shoulders using a machine. It helps you build strength while providing stability, making it ideal for beginners to learn the movement.

    How to do it

    1. Sit upright in the shoulder press machine with your back against the pad.
    2. Squeeze your shoulder blades together and keep your heels on the ground.
    3. Grip the handles with an overhand grip just outside shoulder-width.
    4. Brace your core and push the handles overhead until your arms are fully extended.
    5. Lower the handles back to the starting position.
    Sets, Reps, Weight
    1
    8reps
    45lbs
    2
    8reps
    45lbs
    3
    8reps
    45lbs
  • 14. Seated Dumbbell Rear Delt Raise

    Seated Dumbbell Rear Delt Raise demonstration video — proper form for this exercise.
    SETS LOGGED
    736,963
    Shoulders Strength
    83 mScore
    Shoulders
    Photo of Dumbbells
    Dumbbells
    Photo of Flat Bench
    Flat Bench

    The Seated Dumbbell Rear Delt Raise strengthens the muscles at the back of your shoulders. Sitting provides stability, helping you focus on your form while balancing the weight evenly on both sides.

    How to do it

    1. Sit on the edge of a bench with a dumbbell in each hand, palms facing in.
    2. Lean forward at your hips at a 40-60 degree angle with your back straight.
    3. Raise the dumbbells out to the sides until they reach shoulder height, squeezing your shoulder blades together.
    4. 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
  • 15. 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
    12.5lbs
    2
    8reps
    12.5lbs
    3
    8reps
    12.5lbs

Alternative Workouts

Alternative Workouts to Get Lean and Burn Fat

Alternative Shoulders Workouts

Alternative Shoulders Workouts to Get Lean and Burn Fat