Dumbbell Prone W Raise - How to Perform, Muscles, Variants | SatisFIT Skip to main content

Dumbbell Prone W Raise

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Dumbbell Prone W Raise.

MediumRear shouldersTrapezius

About this exercise

A prone dumbbell exercise performed face-down on an incline bench that targets the rear deltoids and upper traps by moving the arms into a W-shaped position. The W path combines horizontal abduction with external rotation, making it an excellent corrective and muscle-building move for posterior shoulder health.

How to Perform

  • Set an adjustable bench to a low incline (30–45°) and lie face down with your chest on the pad
  • Hold a light dumbbell in each hand with arms hanging straight down, palms facing each other
  • Initiate the movement by retracting your shoulder blades
  • Raise both arms out to the sides and bend your elbows to roughly 90°, forming a "W" shape
  • Externally rotate your shoulders so your thumbs point toward the ceiling at the top
  • Pause at the top and squeeze the rear delts and upper traps
  • Lower the dumbbells back to the starting position in a slow, controlled manner
  • Keep your neck neutral and avoid shrugging throughout the movement

Muscle Activation

Primary
Rear shouldersTrapezius
Secondary
Middle back

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes content is coming soon.

About the Dumbbell Prone W Raise

The Dumbbell Prone W 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.