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Cable Side-Lying Single-Arm Lateral Raise

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Cable Side-Lying Single-Arm Lateral Raise.

MediumSide shoulders

About this exercise

The cable side-lying single-arm lateral raise isolates the medial (side) deltoid by eliminating momentum and keeping constant tension through the full range of motion. Lying sideways with the cable pulling from below creates a unique resistance curve compared to standing variations.

How to Perform

  • Attach a single D-handle to the low pulley and lie on your side perpendicular to the cable machine, feet stacked on top of each other
  • Grip the handle with your top hand, arm slightly bent and extended toward the pulley
  • Brace your core and raise your top arm in a wide arc upward until it points toward the ceiling
  • Pause briefly at the top, feeling the contraction in your outer shoulder
  • Lower the handle slowly under control back to the starting position
  • Complete all reps on one side before switching to the other

Muscle Activation

Primary
Side shoulders
Secondary
Rear shouldersFront shoulders

About the Cable Side-Lying Single-Arm Lateral Raise

The Cable Side-Lying Single-Arm Lateral Raise is a foundational movement that builds strength and muscle through controlled, progressive overload. Train it 1 to 2 times per week with 3 to 5 working sets per session, gradually adding weight or reps as form holds up.