Exercise Comparison
Alternating Deltoid Raise vs Elbow Circles
Side-by-Side
Muscle Analysis
Shared
Only in Elbow Circles
Instructions
Alternating Deltoid Raise
In a standing position, hold a pair of dumbbells at your side.
Keeping your elbows slightly bent, raise the weights directly in front of you to shoulder height, avoiding any swinging or cheating.
Return the weights to your side.
On the next repetition, raise the weights laterally, raising them out to your side to about shoulder height.
Return the weights to the starting position and continue alternating to the front and side.
Elbow Circles
Sit or stand with your feet slightly apart.
Place your hands on your shoulders with your elbows at shoulder level and pointing out.
Slowly make a circle with your elbows. Breathe out as you start the circle and breathe in as you complete the circle.
Verdict
Both exercises target the shoulders. Alternating Deltoid Raise is a beginner exercise using dumbbell, while Elbow Circles is beginner and uses none. Choose Alternating Deltoid Raise if you have access to dumbbell, or Elbow Circles if you prefer none.