Exercise Comparison
Alternating Deltoid Raise vs Upward Stretch
Side-by-Side
Muscle Analysis
Shared
Only in Upward Stretch
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.
Upward Stretch
Extend both hands straight above your head, palms touching.
Slowly push your hands up and back, keeping your back straight.
Verdict
Both exercises target the shoulders. Alternating Deltoid Raise is a beginner exercise using dumbbell, while Upward Stretch is beginner and uses none. Choose Alternating Deltoid Raise if you have access to dumbbell, or Upward Stretch if you prefer none.