HOW TO GET RED CARPET SHOULDERS
Getty
By Simone Garcia Johnson and Grace Cook
3 Minute Read
Going to a formal event? Want to feel sculpted in a strapless top? This workout will make your deltoids rise to the occasion.
Being strong is sexy. Should you need proof, look to Skylar Diggins, who stepped out onto the red carpet at the Golden Globes looking sculpted and statuesque in a gown that revealed her perfectly hewn deltoids. For shoulders are a glamour muscle. They’re the architecture that scaffolds your strapless gown; the grammar that punctuates your tank top.
Most women overlook dedicated shoulder workouts in favor of broader ‘upper body’ routines. But Danimás founder Dany Garcia insists a dialed-in protocol will have your deltoids popping for the paparazzi—whether you’re heading to a wedding, a formal party or you simply want to feel great in your everyday jersey and jeans.
Shoulder workouts should never be overlooked. “It’s so important to train your shoulders for numerous reasons,” says Dany. “First of all shoulders are involved in almost any upper body activity, so it’s essential to build strength and stability there—your shoulder is one of the most flexible joints in the body. The fun part of training shoulders is that it gives you that superhero look.” In turn, this creates beautiful proportions by visually refining your waist.
Training your shoulders also positively impacts your posture, and the way you carry yourself—both on the red carpet, and in life.
Here, Dany shares her tried-and-tested shoulder workout, designed exclusively for Danimás.
MAKE THE SHOULDER POP FOR THE PAPS
Dany Garcia & Dave Rienzi
20 Minute Workout
Always commence any workout by properly preparing your body. The Danimás go-to warm-up has you covered.
1. Reverse Fly Machine: 3x10 reps with a 4-second hold at the bottom. The first set is a warm up set, and the second two are the show. On the last set, once you hit failure, do 5 partial reps. Complete a 90 second rest period between sets.
The technique: To use the reverse fly machine, sit facing the pad with your chest supported. Then, adjust the seat so the handles align with your shoulders. With a slight elbow bend, pull the handles back and squeeze your shoulder blades together with each rep. Control the eccentric (negative) and return to base.
2. Single Arm Cable Bent Over Lateral Raise: 3x12 reps.
The technique: Place a cable pulley at the lowest setting and attach a single handle. Stand with your side to the machine, grip the handle with the outside hand and then bend forward at the waist while keeping your back straight, remember to engage your core. With a slight bend in your elbow, raise your arm out to the side until your hand is at shoulder level. Pause at the top for a moment (peak contraction) and then slowly lower the weight back to the starting position.
3. Standing Single Arm Side Lateral Raises: 3x 12 reps, with 3-second negatives and 60-second rest. The first set is a warm-up set. Completing both arms is one set.
The technique: Stand straight and engage your core, holding a light dumbbell (no more than 10lbs). Raise your arm to shoulder height with a slight elbow bend, focusing on leading with the elbow. Pause at the top for a moment (peak contraction) and then slowly lower the weight back to the starting position.
THE STELLAR SHOULDER SUPERSET
To cap it off, finish with this.
4. Side Lateral Raise: 3x10 reps with 2-second peak contraction hold.
The technique: Stand with feet hip-width apart holding dumbbells at your sides, palms in. With a slight elbow bend, raise arms out to the sides until fully extended, leading with elbows. Control the weight on the way down, engaging your core. Remember to keep tension and avoid using momentum to lower the weight.
Pro tip*: keep weight light.
5. Overhead Press: 3x 15 reps. The first set is a warm-up set.
The technique: Sit on a bench with your back supported and plant your feet firmly. Hold dumbbells at shoulder height with palms forward, bracing your core. Press weights straight up until arms are extended without locking elbows, then slowly lower to the starting position. Remember to protect your joints and not to flare your elbows.
Editorial disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only—even if it includes insights from medical professionals, fitness experts, nutrition specialists, or other wellness advisors. It is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, exercise routine, supplement or medication regimen, or lifestyle habits. We make no guarantees about the effectiveness or safety of the strategies, products, or services mentioned. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read in this article. Your reliance on any information provided by Danimás is solely at your own risk. In no event will Danimás be liable for any loss or damage, including, without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever, arising from the use of or reliance on any information provided in this article.
