ExRx.net

Ok I agree. I normally go as far back as possible (same with flys) so my elbows are really high. I stopped about perpendicular this time and felt it a lot more on my rear delts. I think it's because it's constant tension, going further back brings the traps in and gives the rear delts a break.

Ok I agree. I normally go as far back as possible (same with flys) so my elbows are really high. I stopped about perpendicular this time and felt it a lot more on my rear delts. I think it's because it's constant tension, going further back brings the traps in and gives the rear delts a break.

Rear delt laterals are one of the exercises done incorrectly by most lifters. It really helped me having someone knowledgeable check out my form and correct my mistakes.

This site's write-up of rear delt flies (dumbbell variety) is here.

The finishing position is different on both the picture and the animation? I'm still confused on correct form for maximising rear delt work.

Comments

Dumbbells are raised by shoulder transverse abduction, not external rotation, nor extention. Upper arm should travel in perpendicular path to torso to minimize relatively powerful latissimus dorsi involvement. This mean at top of movement, elbows (not necessarily dumbbells) should be directly lateral to shoulders since elbows are slightly bent forward. To exercise posterior deltoid and not lateral deltoid, keep upper torso close to horizontal. Positioning upper torso at 45° is not sufficient angle to target rear deltoids. The spine can be flexed to achive this positioning if thighs can provide sufficient support for torso. Some individuals may not be able to bend sufficiently at hip due to flexibility or girth constraints. Also see Rear Lateral Raise Errors and Low Back Alignment Exceptions.