Exercises › Dumbbell V-raise

Dumbbell V-raise

Hold dumbbells together in front of your thighs. Raise them up and slightly out so they trace a V shape to shoulder height, then lower under control.

StrengthDumbbellsDifficulty 1 of 3

Two-panel demonstration of the dumbbell v-raise, showing the start and finish positions — Start and finish positions

How to do it

Hold dumbbells together in front of your thighs. Raise them up and slightly out so they trace a V shape to shoulder height, then lower under control.

Muscles worked

Front

Back

shouldersprimary

Hover a muscle to find it on the figure. Dark green is the primary mover, lighter green is supporting work.

Other options in this pattern

Lateral raisedumbbells · difficulty 1/3
Kettlebell halokettlebells · difficulty 2/3
Cable face pullmachines · difficulty 1/3
Dumbbell diagonal raisedumbbells · difficulty 2/3

How many sets should you do?

That depends on your goal, your ability, and how many days you train. Answer three questions and the builder works out your sets and reps, plus a full week around them.

Get my sets and reps

Johnny Milaychev · Product manager and self-directed lifter, not a trainer or a clinician. Why that matters and where this guidance stops.
Reviewed 16 August 2026 · Exercise library v2.2