What happened

Boxrox published a piece examining the Lu Raise, a newer shoulder exercise that aims to diversify how we train the upper body beyond the classic lateral raises, presses, and rear delt work. The article discusses how this lift uses a distinct path to challenge the deltoids and surrounding shoulder stabilizers, adding another option to the toolkit for building broader, more resilient shoulders. While it’s not a miracle move, it’s presented as a thoughtful addition to a balanced shoulder program.

Why it matters for push-ups

Push-ups demand solid shoulder stability, scapular control, and durable deltoids to maintain proper form from the chest to the elbows. A shoulder variation like the Lu Raise can help address common weak links—especially the mid- and upper-back scapular muscles and the side delts—that influence your ability to set the scapula and lock out at the top. When executed with control, this lift can complement pressing work and support healthier range of motion, potentially reducing compensations that creep into push-ups as fatigue sets in. The bigger picture is shoulder health: fewer bottlenecks and more reliable crease-free presses when you move onto higher-rep or drill-focused push-up sets.

PUSHapp take

From a practical PUSHapp perspective, the Lu Raise should be treated as an accessory move that fills missing shoulder-bracing and symmetry rather than a replacement for staple upper-body work. Use it to improve the movement quality around push-ups, especially for athletes who spend a lot of time pressing or who notice shoulder ache during higher-rep sets. Integrate 1–3 sets of 8–12 reps a couple of times per week as part of an overall upper-body or mobility block. Start with light loads to learn the path and scapular engagement, and progress only after mastery of form and pain-free movement. Pair with scapular mobility and rotator cuff stability work to maximize carryover and reduce risk.

Try this

• Start light with dumbbells or a resistance band to learn the upward path without shrugging the shoulders.
• Focus on a tall spine, ribs down, and a controlled tempo (pause briefly at the top to feel deltoid engagement).
• Progress from standing to incline variations, then to lighter cable or weight-assisted versions as strength and control improve.
• Keep workouts balanced: couple the Lu Raise with targeted push-up progressions and some scapular stabilization drills.

Source: BOXROX

2 min read.

Source: BOXROX. PUSHapp commentary is original and based on the public RSS summary.