A move to make lifting and reaching easier

Front arm raises can improve the overall shape of your shoulders by training your deltoids, the muscles in the front of your shoulders. Strong deltoids make lifting objects and reaching forward much easier to do.

Performing this move on a Bosu trainer engages your core muscles and will help protect your back by preventing you from leaning backward as you raise your arms.

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1 Hold a dumbbell in each hand in front of your thighs, both palms facing your body, elbows slightly bent. Place your knees hip-width apart on a Bosu ball. Lift your feet off the floor and tighten your abdominals.

2 Slowly raise your arms in front of you until the dumbbells are at shoulder level while maintaining your balance on the Bosu ball. Pause when your arms are parallel to the floor. With control, lower the dumbbells to about thigh level. Rest for 15 seconds and repeat for a total of three sets.

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-- Karen Voight