Exercise guide
Cable One Arm Front Raise
- Beginner
- Isolation
- Rep-based
- Shoulders
This unilateral isolation exercise targets the anterior deltoid, providing constant tension throughout the movement to improve shoulder definition and stability.
Reviewed by the Crucible team · Updated June 2026
Muscles worked
Setup
- Set the cable pulley to the lowest setting and attach a D-handle.
- Stand with your back to the machine, feet shoulder-width apart, and grab the handle with one hand using an overhand grip.
- Step forward slightly to create tension on the cable, keeping your arm straight down by your side.
- Engage your core and maintain a slight bend in your knees for a stable base.
How to do it
- Exhale as you raise your arm directly in front of you until it is parallel to the floor, keeping a slight bend in the elbow.
- Pause for a second at the top of the movement to maximize peak contraction in the front delt.
- Inhale as you slowly lower the handle back to the starting position using a controlled 3-second tempo.
- Complete all repetitions on one side before switching to the other arm.
Form checklist
- Keep your torso upright and avoid leaning back or swinging to gain momentum.
- Maintain a 'soft' elbow to protect the joint without turning the movement into a press.
- Keep your shoulder blades depressed; do not shrug the weight up toward your ear.
- Ensure your wrist remains neutral and firm throughout the entire range of motion.
Pro tips
- Lean slightly forward from the hips to increase the range of motion and tension at the bottom of the rep.
- Focus on pushing the handle 'away' from your body as you lift to better isolate the anterior deltoid and minimize trap involvement.
Make it harder
- Implement a 3-second isometric hold at the top of each repetition when the arm is parallel to the floor.
- Perform a 'slow eccentric' by taking 5 seconds to lower the weight back to the starting position.
Frequently asked
- What muscles does the cable one arm front raise work?
- The cable one arm front raise primarily targets the deltoids, and also works the trapezius as secondary muscles.
- What equipment do you need for the cable one arm front raise?
- The cable one arm front raise uses cable.
- Is the cable one arm front raise good for beginners?
- Yes. The cable one arm front raise is a beginner-friendly movement and a strong foundation to build on.
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