Virtual Fitness: How To Do A Dumbbell Shoulder Press

Dumbbell Shoulder Press

Instructions: The Dumbbell Shoulder Press is a strength training exercise that targets the Mid Deltoid muscles of the shoulder. The starting position is to form right angles at the elbows, as shown in the video. Wrists are straight. Slowly push the weights up until your arms are straight, and then slowly return to the start position. The exercise is performed either seated or standing, with feet about a hip width apart.
Benefits: Strengthens the Mid Deltoid muscles of the shoulder.
Caution: If you attempt to lift more weight than you can handle, you’ll lose control of the dumbbells. The eventual outcome of chronic poor technique is injury.
Alternatives: Dumbbells are more difficult to control than machines. If you have access to a gym, use the Shoulder Press machine that targets the Mid Deltoid. If not, use smaller dumbbells.

EXERCISE DOs and DONTs – As with all exercise programs, when using exercise videos that appear on this site, you need to use common sense. If your muscles are weak, either do the modifications, or don’t attempt this exercise if it’s too difficult for you. When starting an exercise program, be sure to discuss your plans with your healthcare provider
Please leave comments. It helps others to learn.

Virtual Fitness: How To Do Walking Dumbbell Lunge

Walking Dumbbell Lunge


Instructions: Alternate stepping forward with right and then left foot. Hold and stabilize between steps. As strength increases, add more weight to increase challenge.
Modifications: 1) Take smaller steps forward and bring both feet together after each step. 2) Place hands on hips instead of holding weights. 3) Hold onto a wall with one hand, with opposite hand on your hip or at your side.
Moving Lunge Benefits: Strengthens thighs, legs and core. Improves balance.
Cautions: Slow your tempo to suit your ability. The goal is to maintain a steady pace without losing balance.
EXERCISE DOs and DONTs – As with all exercise programs, when using exercise videos that appear on this site, you need to use common sense. If your muscles are weak, either do the modifications, or don’t attempt this exercise if it’s too difficult for you. When starting an exercise program, be sure to discuss your plans with your healthcare provider

Risky Exercise 101

FITNESS BALL + DUMBBELLS = ACCIDENT

A common exercise is to sit, or lie down on a fitness ball while holding dumbbells in each hand.  Is it a good idea? Not really.  Why so?  Because if you lose your balance, and fall, you can suffer broken bones in your shoulders, arms or neck.

Risky Overhead Tricep Exercise
Risky Overhead Tricep Exercise

The fitness ball is designed to enhance your flexibility, core strength, and coördination.

Don’t misuse this great piece of equipment.  

Maybe you’re accustomed to using dumbbells while positioned on a fitness ball.  Maybe you’ve never lost your balance.  There’s always that first time.

Fitness balls can break during your exercise routine.

The first time you lose your balance on a fitness ball, while holding a set of dumbbells, may be the last time you ever try it.  After you’ve injured yourself, you won’t do it again.

Copyright 2013 Irene Pastore and Blue Moon Personal Training