1 Exercise To Build Bigger Front Delts

The incline overhand barbell front raise is a great way to shape and build the front anterior deltoid if done correctly. However, having said that, I often see people in the gym performing the incline overhand barbell front raise exercise incorrectly. Therefore we’re going to break things down and take you all through it step by step so you can utilize the benefits of this awesome exercise.

The Set Up

The set up for this variation requires you to use an incline bench and set it to a 45 degree angle before taking the starting position. I'd like to point out here that the angle of the bench is extremely important if you are going to execute this exercise with good form and precision.

Guidance On The Set Up

Once you have set your bench to a 45 degree angle, lay with your chest/front upper torso facing down on the bench and ensure that you plant your feet into the ground either side of the bench for stability and support.

How To Perform An Incline Barbell Overhand Front Raise

Once you have completed the set up proceed to grab the barbell with an overhand grip which is shoulder width apart with your arms fully extended. This will be your starting position.

At this point you then raise the bar until it is parallel to the floor and pause for a moment at the top of the movement, before returning back slowly to the starting position. Repeat the movement for the desired number of reps.

What Part Of The Shoulder Does This Exercise Work?

This exercise mainly works the front deltoids.

Common Mistakes People Make When Performing This Exercise

People often try to perform this exercise with far too much weight, and as a result they subsequently perform this exercise with a swinging motion which inevitably leads to no gains whatsoever. The swing technique will not engage the muscle properly. You need to check your ego at the door, and use a moderate weight to start with at least until you become stronger and more competent with the movement.

Conclusion – When Is The Best Time To Do This Exercise?

I like to do this exercise at the end of my workouts following my heavier compound lifts. I feel that’s when this exercise is best utilized. However, I am sure that you can get just as much benefit doing this exercise at the beginning or mid-way through your workout. At the end of the day it doesn't matter when you perform this exercise just as long as you are doing it correctly!