Lateral dumbbell raises target your side deltoid muscles, helping you build wider, more defined shoulders. To perform the exercise, stand upright with a dumbbell in each hand, arms at your sides. With a slight bend in your elbows, lift the weights out to the sides until your arms are parallel to the ground. Pause briefly, then lower them back down with control. Keep your core tight and avoid swinging. It’s a great isolation movement for shoulder growth and stability.