Cable Reverse Fly
The Cable Reverse Fly primarily works the Posterior Deltoid, Trapezius (Middle), with secondary activation of the Infraspinatus, Rhomboids, Teres Minor and stabilizer support from the Erector Spinae, Rectus Abdominis. It is a cable isolation exercise at intermediate difficulty.
The Cable Reverse Fly is an intermediate isolation exercise performed with cable, following a horizontal pull movement pattern. It primarily targets the Posterior Deltoid, Trapezius (Middle), with secondary engagement of the Infraspinatus, Rhomboids, Teres Minor. This is a bilateral pulling movement, engaging both sides of the body simultaneously.
Standing between two cable machines with crossed handles, pull them apart in an arcing motion targeting the rear shoulders.
| Equipment | Cable |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Type | Isolation |
| Movement | Horizontal Pull |
| Force | Pull |
| Laterality | Bilateral |
| Primary | Posterior Deltoid, Trapezius (Middle) |
| Secondary | Infraspinatus, Rhomboids, Teres Minor |
Muscles Worked
The Posterior Deltoid, and Trapezius (Middle) are the primary movers, collectively driving the movement and absorbing the greatest share of the load. The Infraspinatus, Rhomboids, and Teres Minor act as secondary movers, assisting the primary muscles and contributing meaningfully to the overall output. The Erector Spinae, Rectus Abdominis act as stabilizers, maintaining joint position and postural alignment throughout the movement.
Primary Muscles
- Primary Muscle Posterior Deltoid (shoulders)
- Primary Muscle Trapezius (Middle) (back)
Secondary Muscles
- Secondary Muscle Infraspinatus (back)
- Secondary Muscle Rhomboids (back)
- Secondary Muscle Teres Minor (back)
Stabilizer Muscles
- Stabilizer Muscle Erector Spinae (back)
- Stabilizer Muscle Rectus Abdominis (core)
How to Perform
Preparation
- Attach appropriate handle to cable pulley.
- Grasp handle and face machine.
Execution
- Pull weight toward torso, squeezing shoulder blades together.
- Return to starting position under control.
- Repeat.
Comments
- Maintain control throughout movement to fully engage the Posterior Deltoid, Trapezius (Middle).
Tips & Common Mistakes
- Retract and depress your shoulder blades before initiating each rep.
- Lead with your elbows rather than your hands to maximize back engagement.
- Avoid shrugging your traps — keep your shoulders packed down and back.
Programming Suggestions
Adapt your sets and reps to your training goal.
| Strength | 3–4 sets × 6–8 reps at 75–85% 1RM with 90–120 seconds rest. |
|---|---|
| Hypertrophy | 3–4 sets × 10–15 reps at 60–75% 1RM with 60–90 seconds rest. |
| Endurance | 2–3 sets × 15–25 reps at 40–60% 1RM with 30–45 seconds rest. |
Alternative Exercises
These exercises target the same primary muscles (Posterior Deltoid, Trapezius (Middle)) and can be substituted based on your equipment or variation preferences.
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