Strong shoulders aren't just about looking good; they're the backbone to many of our daily movements, from lifting and pushing to pulling. A healthy shoulder not only supports our upper back but also promotes an overall robust frame.

Yet, life's stresses and long hours hunched over computers can take a toll on these muscles. Feeling a nagging shoulder pain lately? The answer lies in weaving shoulder-strengthening exercises into your daily routine.

Six essential exercises can keep your shoulders robust and free from discomfort:

Shoulder strengthening exercises

Discover some user-friendly shoulder exercises that seamlessly fit into both your gym sessions and everyday workouts:

Shoulder Press

The Shoulder Press, also known as the Overhead Press, is a compound exercise targeting the shoulders, upper chest, and triceps.

How to Perform the Shoulder Press:

• Begin by sitting on a bench or chair, with your feet placed shoulder-width apart.
• Grasp a dumbbell in each hand and elevate them to shoulder height.
• With palms facing forward and elbows bent, press the dumbbells upwards, extending your arms fully as if you're giving an enthusiastic cheer.
• Pause and hold at the top for a moment, then gently lower the dumbbells back to the starting position.
• Ensure your core is engaged and your back remains straight throughout the movement.
• If you're just starting out, it's wise to use lighter dumbbells before progressing to heavier weights.

Upright Rows

Upright rows spotlight the shoulders and traps, offering a focused workout for these regions.

How to perform upright rows:

• Imagine you're pulling an object upwards using both wrists, only this time you'll be holding a barbell.
• Begin by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart.
• Grasp the barbell using an overhand grip, keeping your hands slightly closer than shoulder-width.
• Start with the barbell hanging in front of you, arms fully extended, and elbows pointing outwards.
• Elevate the barbell towards your chin, allowing your elbows to guide the motion, always leading the way.
• Pause momentarily at the topmost position before smoothly returning to your starting point.

The Rear Delt Fly

The Rear Delt Fly specifically targets the deltoid muscle in the shoulder, especially its posterior head, making it an isolation exercise.

How to Perform the Rear Delt Fly on a Machine:

• Begin by sitting on the rear delt fly machine, placing your feet shoulder-width apart.
• Position your palms so they face each other.
• Keeping your back straight, start moving your hands outwards, emulating the motion of opening double doors.
• Ensure your chest is pressed against the machine's pad and adjust your seat for optimal comfort. Your feet should be flat on the ground, and your posture should be aligned with the machine's padding.

Dumbbell Variation:

This exercise can also be performed with dumbbells. When doing so, maintain proper form: keep your back straight and avoid overextending, which could strain your shoulders or back.

Front Raises

A fantastic exercise for sculpting the shoulders, front raises specifically engage the anterior deltoids, the muscles gracing the front of your shoulders.

How to Perform Front Raises:

• Begin by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart.
• Clasp a dumbbell in each hand with palms facing your body.
• With straight arms, raise the dumbbells directly in front of you until they reach a position parallel to the ground.
• Pause and hold at this height for a moment.
• Gently lower the dumbbells back to your starting position.

Lateral Raises

Targeting the side muscles of the shoulders, the Lateral Raises are a must-add to any shoulder regimen.

How to Execute Lateral Raises:

• Start with dumbbells in each hand, palms facing your body.
• With a slight bend in your elbows, raise your arms out to the sides, emulating the wingspan of a bird in flight.
• Extend your arms so they're level with the ground, ensuring your palms face downward.
• Pause for a moment at the top before gracefully returning to the starting position.

Push-Ups Basic Shoulder-Strengthening Push-Ups

A foundational exercise, these push-ups not only bolster shoulder strength but are also accessible for beginners and enthusiasts alike.

How to Perform the Exercise:

• Start in a plank position, ensuring your hands are shoulder-width apart and your wrists are directly beneath your shoulders.
• Engage your core, keeping a straight line from your head to your heels.
• Bend your elbows to lower your body, remembering to maintain that straight body line throughout the movement.
• Your chest should hover just above the ground. Pause in this lowered position for a beat.
• Powerfully push yourself back up, returning to the initial plank position.

Medical Disclaimer: The information and reference materials contained here are intended solely for the general information of the reader. Patients and consumers should review the information carefully with their professional health care provider or fitness trainer. The information is not intended to replace medical advice offered by physicians or trainers. You should consult your physician and/or trainer before beginning a new fitness program, diet, nutritional or beauty treatment. The publisher or its management do not claim responsibility for  information provided herein.