Exercise Comparison
Alternating Deltoid Raise vs Shoulder Circles
Side-by-Side
Muscle Analysis
Shared
Only in Shoulder 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.
Shoulder Circles
With shoulders relaxed and arms resting loosely at your sides (or in your lap if you're seated), gently roll your shoulders forward, up, back, and down.
Reverse direction. You can do this exercise alternating shoulders or both at the same time.
Verdict
Both exercises target the shoulders. Alternating Deltoid Raise is a beginner exercise using dumbbell, while Shoulder Circles is beginner and uses none. Choose Alternating Deltoid Raise if you have access to dumbbell, or Shoulder Circles if you prefer none.