If you’re after bigger delts, bodybuilding coach Charles Glass has some expert tips on achieving them. In a recent YouTube video shared on January 14, 2025, Glass explained how to fix your side lateral raise, offering insight into body mechanics and proper form.
Hailed as the ‘Godfather of Bodybuilding,’ Charles Glass has worked alongside decorated IFBB Pros, helping them reach their ultimate physiques. His influence over the Men’s Open division has been felt for years. He’s guided top-tier talents to success such as Dexter Jackson, Chris Cormier, Shawn Rhoden, and Flex Wheeler.
From sculpting the physiques of celebrities Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson to ‘Hollywood’ Hulk Hogan, Glass approaches exercise methodically and logically. Since shoulders recover quickly from training, proper technique, and execution are crucial. This led Glass to explain how to fix the side lateral raise, one of the most popular exercises for growing the medial head of the deltoid.
‘Godfather of Bodybuilding’ Charles Glass Gives Form Tips for Perfecting Your Side Lateral Raise
Glass started the YouTube video with form instructions, advising lifters to pull the dumbbell to the side with the chest up while turning the elbow.
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“Don’t pull it to the front, but to the side okay? Chest up, push it out,” shared Glass. “Turn the elbow.”
“Bring it [the dumbbell] back a little bit to touch your leg.”
In addition, he explained the importance of squeezing through the scapula for a contraction. This allows lifters to effectively target the medial head of the delt.
“Stick your chest out and squeeze through the scapula. Stall and now bring it down. By twisting the wrist, you put it right there [proper position], furthermore, you squeeze through the scapula because why? It contracts back. Now, you go straight out rather than pulling it to the front. Straight out, it’s all medial head.”
Charles Glass has tried-and-true advice for building all muscle groups. Recently, he dived into chest training, revealing why he doesn’t recommend conventional flat presses. Most notably, he said to avoid this exercise as he’s witnessed many individuals tear their pecs. Instead, he prefers to focus on decline or incline presses.
Boasting decades of experience helping individuals achieve their ideal physiques, Glass is a treasure to the fitness and bodybuilding community. The next time you hit a shoulder workout, give his tips and insights on side lateral raises a try.
Watch the full video from The.CharlesGlass YouTube channel below:
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