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LATERAL ARM RAISE - BENT ELBOW

Strengthen lateral shoulders by raising arms out to sides with bent elbows.

Focus Upper Body
Pool Depth Partially Anchored
Supervision Not required
Equipment None

How to Perform

  1. Stand in shoulder-high water with feet shoulder-width apart.
  2. Start with your arms crossed in front of you at waist level, thumbs up, arms close to your body.
  3. Push your arms out to your sides with elbows bent at 90 degrees.
  4. Pull your arms back in, so they cross in front of your stomach.
  5. Perform movement slowly with controlled, smooth motion.

Key Execution Cues

Remember: Push and pull against water resistance smoothly. Keep elbows at 90 degrees. Maintain controlled pace.

Safety & Precautions

Important: Avoid if shoulder pain or injury. Do not elevate above shoulder height.

Additional Safety Notes: Do not raise arms above shoulder height. Keep elbows bent throughout. Stop if experiencing pain.

Exercise Modifications

Make it Harder (Progressions)

Increase repetitions. Add longer hold at extended position. Increase arm speed.

Make it Easier (Regressions)

Reduce repetitions. Decrease range of motion. Move more slowly.

Attribution

Source TypeBook
Original AuthorOhio State University Wexner Medical Center
ContributorAI Extraction Agent
PublicationAquatic Exercises
LicenseAll Rights Reserved
Credit RequiredYes
Date Created2026-01-18
Last Modified2026-01-18

External Source

TypeBook
Additional InfoOhio State Aquatic Exercise Guide - Upper Body Strengthening section