ProgreviaMachine lateral raise
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How to do it
With the arms against the pads, raise to shoulder height leading with the elbows and squeeze the side delts. The machine gives constant tension; lower slowly without dropping the weight.
Muscles worked
Mainly hombros. Train it inside a balanced routine to progress safely.
Technical sheet
- Movement pattern
- Isolation
- Minimum level
- Beginner
- Technical demand
- Basic
- Fatigue it generates
- Low (0.5 out of 2.2)
- Risk if technique breaks down
- Low
These are the values the generator uses to decide where the exercise goes within the session.
Recommended sets and reps
As an isolation exercise, it works best in 3–4 sets of 10–15 reps with 0–2 RIR. Use it at the end of the session to add volume without systemic fatigue.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Using torso momentum (swinging) to lift the weight instead of isolating the deltoid.
- Using too much weight at the cost of technique and full range of motion.
- Doing reps too fast, without controlling the eccentric (lowering) phase.
How Machine lateral raise compares with other shoulders exercises
The catalogue has 15 exercises with shoulders as the main muscle group. Ranked from least to most fatiguing with the same values the generator uses, Machine lateral raise is number 4 (tied with 4 others).
That makes it a good candidate for adding shoulders sets at the end of a session or in heavy weeks, when you want volume without extra fatigue.
With different equipment, the same movement pattern offers 7 alternatives, such as Band pull-apart, Band lateral raise and Bent-over reverse flye.
| Exercise | Equipment | Fatigue | Technique |
|---|---|---|---|
| Band pull-apart | resistance band | Low (0.3 out of 2.2) | Basic |
| Band lateral raise | resistance band | Low (0.4 out of 2.2) | Basic |
| Bent-over reverse flye | dumbbells | Low (0.4 out of 2.2) | Basic |
| Front raise | dumbbells | Low (0.5 out of 2.2) | Basic |
| Lateral raise | dumbbells | Low (0.5 out of 2.2) | Basic |
| Cable lateral raise | cable | Low (0.5 out of 2.2) | Basic |
| Machine lateral raise | machine | Low (0.5 out of 2.2) | Basic |
| Face pull | cable | Low (0.5 out of 2.2) | Basic |
On a machine. In the meta-analysis by Haugen et al. (2023), with thirteen studies and 1,016 participants, there were no significant differences in muscle growth between training on machines and with free weights.
An isolation exercise. In the trial by Gentil et al. (2015), with untrained young men over ten weeks, the biceps curl and the lat pulldown were equally effective for gaining strength and size in the elbow flexors: isolation is not filler.
- Haugen ME, Vårvik FT, Larsen S, Haugen AS, van den Tillaar R, Bjørnsen T. Effect of free-weight vs. machine-based strength training on maximal strength, hypertrophy and jump performance: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Sports Science, Medicine and Rehabilitation. 2023;15(1):103.
- Gentil P, Soares S, Bottaro M. Single vs. multi-joint resistance exercises: effects on muscle strength and hypertrophy. Asian Journal of Sports Medicine. 2015;6(2):e24057.
Alternative exercises
More Isolation exercises
- Barbell calf raise
- Kettlebell calf raise
- Dumbbell calf raise
- Standing calf raise
- Single-leg calf raise on leg press
Add it to your routine
Progrevia can generate a personalized routine that includes Machine lateral raise based on your level, goal and available days.
Build your Shoulders workout
Generate a full routine with the emphasis on Shoulders and Machine lateral raise among your preferred exercises. Free, no sign-up.
Not sure what to pick? The setup assistant walks you through it, one question at a time. Open the assistant
Frequently asked questions
What muscles does Machine lateral raise work?
Machine lateral raise mainly works the hombros muscle group, plus synergist and stabilizer muscles depending on the variation.
How many sets of Machine lateral raise should I do?
Between 3 and 5 sets per session, adjusting the total weekly volume for hombros to your level (about 10–20 sets per muscle per week).
Is Machine lateral raise good for building muscle?
Yes. Combined with progressive overload, good technique and enough rest, it's an effective tool to grow hombros.
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