If you're looking for shoulder exercises for women to build a strong upper body, you've come to the right place. When most people think about , they might consider doing , or , but moves to work your shoulders aren't as frequently talked about. Your shoulders are used in every upper body movement.
When you reach up to the cupboard for a bowl for your breakfast or extend your arm out to reach your water on your desk, fun fact: you're using your shoulders. Not to mention when we carry heavy bags, pull suitcases and lift weights. Essentially, you need strong and mobile shoulders to help you move effectively.
In from the , one hour a week of shoulder-specific (including exercises like front raises and lateral raises) was enough to effectively reduce neck and shoulder pain in office workers (who notoriously have tight and weak shoulders thanks to days hunching at their desks). can come in handy for the same reasons - but if you're keen to work other areas of your body, don't miss our guides to , , and , too. Focusing on your upper body specifically? and , at the ready.
Ready to give shoulder exercises a go? We turned to our favourite PTs to share their favourite shoulder-strengthening moves, including , coach at , , a and instructor at , , a PT, pilates instructor and spin teacher, and , gym manager and coach at . I've also included my own picks - I'm , a health and fitness writer who has the benefit of regularly talking to the best in the biz, as well as being a qualified persona.
