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Resistance Band Alternating Chest Fly

Intermediate
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Resistance band alternating chest fly is an isolation exercise targeting pectorals with constant tension, mimicking cable flies through horizontal adduction. It builds chest hypertrophy and strength; ideal for home workouts or gym finishers.

About Exercise

Equipment

Bands

Difficulty

2/5 • Intermediate

Primary Muscle Groups

Chest

Secondary Muscles

Shoulders, Biceps

Popularity Score

7

Goals

Hypertrophy
Strength

Training Style

Bodybuilding
Functional Training

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

No

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Small

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Chest

10/10

Mid Chest

Shoulders

5/10

Anterior Delts

Biceps

3/10
Programming

Typical Rep Range

10-15 reps

Rest Between Sets

60-90 seconds

How to Perform

Anchor a resistance band at chest height to a sturdy point. Stand facing away, step forward for tension, extend arms out to sides with slight elbow bend.

  1. Bring one arm across body in an arc toward midline.
  2. Squeeze chest at peak contraction.
  3. Pause briefly while contracting pectorals.
  4. Slowly return arm to start, resisting band tension.
  5. Alternate to the other arm.
  6. Maintain stable core and upright posture.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Squeeze chest hard
  • Elbows slightly bent
  • Arc motion, not straight
  • Control the return
  • Stay stable, no twist

Breathing

Inhale as you return to start; exhale during the contraction phase while bracing core.

Tempo

3-1-2

Range of Motion

Extend arms from shoulder level to midline crossing, keeping slight elbow bend; avoid locking elbows or overstretching beyond comfortable shoulder position.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Secure anchor firmly to prevent slippage
  • Use appropriate band resistance for form
  • Avoid if acute shoulder pain present
  • Engage core to maintain stability
  • Do not snap band; control all phases

Spotting

Spotting not required; bands provide self-limiting resistance. Use lighter band if form falters.

Common Mistakes

  • Locking elbows
  • Using momentum to swing
  • Overextending arms back
  • Rocking body for assistance
  • Poor anchor security

When to Avoid

  • Shoulder impingement
  • Pec strain
  • Wrist instability

Flexibility Needed

  • Shoulder horizontal adduction
  • Elbow flexion tolerance

Build Up First

  • Basic standing posture
  • Familiarity with band tension

Also known as

Banded Alternating Pec Fly, Alternating Band Chest Fly, Single-Arm Resistance Band Fly

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