Exercise guide
Cable Full Front Raise
- Intermediate
- Isolation
- Rep-based
- Shoulders
- Upper arms
The Cable Full Front Raise targets the anterior deltoids through an extended range of motion, engaging the serratus anterior and trapezius as the arms move overhead. Using a cable ensures constant tension on the muscles throughout the entire arc of the movement.
Reviewed by the Crucible Fit team · Updated June 2026
Muscles worked
Setup
- Set the cable pulley to the lowest setting and attach a straight bar or EZ-bar.
- Stand facing away from the machine with the cable running between your legs.
- Grip the bar with an overhand (pronated) grip at shoulder-width.
- Take a small step forward to create initial tension, standing with feet hip-width apart and a slight bend in the knees.
How to do it
- Exhale and lift the bar forward and upward in a wide arc until your arms are fully extended overhead.
- Keep your core braced and avoid leaning back as the weight moves upward.
- Inhale and slowly lower the bar back to the starting position using a controlled 3-second eccentric phase.
- Maintain a slight, fixed bend in the elbows throughout the entire repetition.
Form checklist
- Keep your chest proud and shoulder blades slightly retracted.
- Avoid using body momentum or swinging the torso to lift the weight.
- Ensure your lower back does not arch excessively as the bar reaches the overhead position.
- Keep your wrists neutral and firm throughout the arc.
Pro tips
- Think about reaching 'long' and pushing the bar away from your body to maximize serratus anterior engagement.
- Pause briefly at the very top of the movement to emphasize the peak contraction of the deltoids and upper traps.
Make it harder
- Perform the exercise unilaterally using a D-handle to increase the challenge to your core stability.
- Incorporate a '1.5 rep' style by lifting overhead, lowering to shoulder height, lifting back overhead, and then lowering completely.
Frequently asked
- What muscles does the cable full front raise work?
- The cable full front raise primarily targets the deltoids and serratus anterior, and also works the biceps as secondary muscles.
- What equipment do you need for the cable full front raise?
- The cable full front raise uses cable.
- Is the cable full front raise good for beginners?
- The cable full front raise is rated intermediate. Build a base with simpler variations first, then progress to it with light load and strict form.
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