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Strength Training: Exercises, Technique, and Equipment

Explore strength training exercises for pushing, pulling, squatting, and hinging, with practical guidance on technique, equipment, and progression.

Strength training uses resistance to challenge muscles through movements performed with body weight, dumbbells, barbells, cables, or machines. It includes foundational lifts as well as focused variations for different movement patterns.

What does strength training include?

This category covers pushing, pulling, squatting, and hip-hinge exercises, including bench presses, rows, squats, and deadlifts. Select equipment and variations that match your goals, experience, and available space. Braced positioning, controlled reps, and an appropriate load are central to sound practice; coaching can help when technique is uncertain.

Practical guidance

Start with a manageable resistance to learn the movement, then progress gradually. Adjust benches, cables, and machines before each set, and keep a clear area around free weights. Stop if you experience sharp pain or cannot control the movement, and seek qualified technique feedback.

Seated Close-Grip Dumbbell Press

Seated Close-Grip Dumbbell Press

The Seated Close-Grip Dumbbell Press is an effective exercise that targets the development of the shoulders and triceps. The close grip engages these muscle groups in a unique way, providing an intense workout focused on strength and stability. Execution Find a comfortable seated position on a b

Shoulders Strength Training
Seated Concentration Curls

Seated Concentration Curls

Introductory: The Seated Concentration Curl is an effective exercise for isolating the biceps. This exercise helps you focus on one arm at a time, providing an intense biceps workout and improving symmetry between both arms. Execution: Sit on the end of a bench with your legs spread wide apart. Hol

Biceps Strength Training
Seated Dip Machine

Seated Dip Machine

The seated dip machine is a good alternative to regular bodyweight dips. The adjustable resistance makes the exercise suitable for people for whom their body weight is too heavy (or whose strength is insufficient). It is also a good alternative for those who add weights to themselves for more resist

Triceps Strength Training
Seated Dumbbell Bench Press

Seated Dumbbell Bench Press

The Seated Dumbbell Bench Press is an effective exercise for strengthening your shoulders and upper body. This exercise offers a unique combination of stability and strength training, helping you build muscle while also improving your posture and balance. Execution Find a bench and sit upright w

Shoulders Strength Training
Seated dumbbell bent over row

Seated dumbbell bent over row

Learn the seated dumbbell bent-over row: hinge forward on a bench and pull your elbows back while keeping your torso still.

Back Strength Training
Seated Dumbbell Calf Raises

Seated Dumbbell Calf Raises

Introduction: Seated Dumbbell Calf Raises are an effective exercise for strengthening the calf muscles. This exercise is ideal if you are looking for an exercise you can perform while seated, which can be useful with limited mobility or as part of a rehabilitation routine. Execution: Begin by sitti

Calves Strength Training
Seated Dumbbell Calf Raises on Knees

Seated Dumbbell Calf Raises on Knees

Seated dumbbell calf raises on your knees are an effective exercise for strengthening and defining the calf muscles. This variation offers a unique way to specifically train the calf muscles using readily available weights. Execution Find a sturdy chair and sit down with your feet flat on the fl

Calves Strength Training
Seated Dumbbell Curls

Seated Dumbbell Curls

Introduction: Seated Dumbbell Curls are an effective exercise for strengthening your biceps. They are ideal when you want to add stability to your upper-body workout, as sitting helps minimize unwanted movement. Execution: Begin by sitting on a bench with a dumbbell in each hand, your arms fully ex

Biceps Strength Training
Seated Dumbbell Front Raise

Seated Dumbbell Front Raise

Front raises primarily emphasize the anterior head of the deltoid (shoulder muscle). The pectoralis major assists in raising the arms. In particular, the fibers that run from the clavicle to the upper arm, also known as the 'upper chest'. In addition to the deltoid itself, various muscles around the

Shoulders Strength Training
Seated Dumbbell Front Raise

Seated Dumbbell Front Raise

The Seated Dumbbell Front Raise is an effective exercise for strengthening and toning your shoulders. This exercise is unique because it targets the anterior deltoids, contributing to better posture and shoulder stability. Execution Sit on a bench with your feet flat on the floor, approximately

Shoulders Strength Training
Seated Dumbbell Front Raises

Seated Dumbbell Front Raises

If you're looking for an effective way to train your shoulders, seated dumbbell front raises are an excellent choice. This exercise specifically targets the front of your shoulders, but it also benefits your upper back and arms, making it a versatile addition to your training routine. Execution

Shoulders Strength Training
Seated Dumbbell Front Raises

Seated Dumbbell Front Raises

Want to strengthen and shape your shoulders? Try Seated Dumbbell Front Raises. This exercise is ideal for isolating the front of your shoulders, and because you are seated, it reduces the chance of cheating with momentum, which often occurs with standing variations. Execution: Sit on a bench wit

Shoulders Strength Training
Seated Dumbbell Lateral Raise

Seated Dumbbell Lateral Raise

Lateral raises (also called side raises) are primarily performed to place greater emphasis on the middle head of the deltoid (shoulder muscle). In addition to the large shoulder muscle itself, various muscles around the shoulder joint are recruited to stabilize it. Smaller stabilizing muscles such a

Shoulders Strength Training
Seated Dumbbell Lateral Raises

Seated Dumbbell Lateral Raises

Want to develop strong shoulders? Try Seated Dumbbell Lateral Raises. This exercise is ideal for isolating the shoulder muscles, particularly the deltoids, and helps improve shoulder stability and symmetry. Execution: Find a bench and sit down with your feet firmly on the floor. Hold a dum

Shoulders Strength Training
Seated Dumbbell Lateral Raises with Swing

Seated Dumbbell Lateral Raises with Swing

Seated Dumbbell Lateral Raises with Swing is an effective exercise for strengthening and defining your shoulder muscles. This variation adds a dynamic element to the traditional lateral raise, so you not only isolate your muscles but also improve your coordination and stability. Execution Sit on

Shoulders Strength Training
Seated Dumbbell One-Arm Shoulder Press

Seated Dumbbell One-Arm Shoulder Press

If you are looking for an effective way to train your shoulders, the Seated Dumbbell One-Arm Shoulder Press is an excellent choice. This exercise targets the shoulder muscles with a unique focus on each arm individually, promoting balanced muscle development and the ability to reduce any strength di

Shoulders Strength Training
Seated Dumbbell Overhead Extension

Seated Dumbbell Overhead Extension

The Seated Dumbbell Overhead Extension is an effective exercise for strengthening and toning your triceps. This exercise offers a unique way to isolate your arms and target the triceps without unnecessarily stressing other muscle groups. Execution Find a comfortable chair or bench and sit with y

Triceps Strength Training
Seated Dumbbell Punch

Seated Dumbbell Punch

If you're looking for an effective way to train your upper body, the Seated Dumbbell Punch is an excellent choice. This exercise combines strength training with elements of boxing, making it not only a great workout for your muscles but also for your cardiovascular system. Instructions Find a co

Biceps Strength Training
Seated Dumbbell Rear Delt Fly

Seated Dumbbell Rear Delt Fly

If you are looking for an effective exercise to strengthen your shoulders and upper back, the Seated Dumbbell Rear Delt Fly is an excellent choice. This exercise specifically targets the backs of your shoulders and helps improve your posture and shoulder stability. Execution Find a bench and sit

Shoulders Strength Training
Seated Dumbbell Shoulder Press

Seated Dumbbell Shoulder Press

The dumbbell shoulder press trains all areas of the shoulders: the anterior, lateral, and posterior deltoids. The exercise can be performed either seated or standing. The execution is largely the same. Sit upright with your back against the bench backrest and place your feet shoulder-width apart. Pr

Shoulders Strength Training
Seated Dumbbell Shoulder Press

Seated Dumbbell Shoulder Press

The Seated Dumbbell Shoulder Press is an effective exercise for strengthening your shoulders and upper body. This exercise offers a unique combination of stability and strength training, contributing to better posture and functional strength. Execution Find a bench and sit upright with your feet

Shoulders Strength Training
Seated Dumbbell Shoulder Press

Seated Dumbbell Shoulder Press

The Seated Dumbbell Shoulder Press is an effective exercise for strengthening your shoulders and upper body. This exercise offers a unique combination of stability and strength training, which is essential for building a balanced physique. Execution Find a comfortable seated position on a bench

Shoulders Strength Training
Seated Dumbbell Shoulder Press

Seated Dumbbell Shoulder Press

The Seated Dumbbell Shoulder Press is an effective exercise for strengthening your shoulders and upper body. This exercise offers the benefit of building both stability and strength in your shoulders, arms, and core. Execution Sit on a bench with a straight back and a dumbbell in each hand.

Shoulders Strength Training
Seated Elbows-In Alternating Dumbbell Overhead Press

Seated Elbows-In Alternating Dumbbell Overhead Press

The Seated Elbows-In Alternating Dumbbell Overhead Press is a dynamic exercise that focuses on strengthening your shoulders and arms while also promoting core stability. This exercise offers a unique twist on the traditional overhead press by emphasizing an alternating movement, helping to create ba

Shoulders Strength Training