What is the primary movement of the shoulder joint during a lateral raise exercise?

The primary movement of the shoulder joint during a lateral raise exercise is abduction. In this movement, the arms are raised from the side of the body straight out to the side, moving away from the midline. This action primarily involves the deltoid muscle, specifically the lateral or middle fibers, which are responsible for lifting the arms away from the body.

Abduction at the shoulder joint is crucial during a lateral raise as it helps in targeting the shoulder muscles effectively, leading to strength development and muscle growth. Understanding this movement is vital for executing the exercise correctly and maximizing its benefits for shoulder development.