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Resistance Band Bent-Over Rear Delt Fly

Intermediate
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A bent-over isolation exercise using a resistance band that targets the rear deltoids and upper back to build shoulder strength and improve posture; effective for muscular balance and shoulder health.

About Exercise

Equipment

Bands

Difficulty

2/5 • Intermediate

Primary Muscle Groups

Shoulders

Secondary Muscles

Abs

Popularity Score

7

Goals

Hypertrophy
Strength
Stability

Training Style

Bodybuilding
Functional Training

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

No

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Small

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Shoulders

10/10

Rear Delts

Traps

7/10

Upper Traps, Mid Traps

Abs

4/10
Programming

Typical Rep Range

10-15 reps

Rest Between Sets

60-90 seconds

How to Perform

Stand on the middle of a resistance band with feet shoulder-width apart. Hinge forward at the hips until your torso is nearly parallel to the floor, keeping your back straight and core engaged. Grasp the band ends with palms facing each other, arms extended down.

  1. Exhale and raise your arms out to the sides with a slight elbow bend.
  2. Squeeze your shoulder blades together at the top.
  3. Pause briefly to contract the rear deltoids.
  4. Inhale and slowly lower your arms back to the starting position.
  5. Maintain a straight back throughout.
  6. Repeat for reps, resisting the band's tension on the way down.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Squeeze shoulder blades
  • Keep back flat
  • Lead with elbows
  • Engage core
  • Controlled descent

Breathing

Inhale as you lower your arms, exhale as you raise them, and brace your core throughout.

Tempo

2-1-2

Range of Motion

Raise arms from straight down to level with shoulders, with elbows slightly bent; avoid locking elbows or going above shoulder height.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Avoid if you have acute lower back pain
  • Ensure band is secure under feet
  • Do not jerk or use momentum
  • Maintain neutral spine to protect back
  • Start with light resistance for form
  • Keep neck aligned with spine

Spotting

Not typically required; bands provide variable tension without heavy loads, but use a partner to check form if needed.

Common Mistakes

  • Using momentum to swing arms
  • Arching the back
  • Locking elbows
  • Jutting head forward
  • Overstretching the band

When to Avoid

  • Acute shoulder impingement
  • Lower back injuries
  • Recent spinal surgery

Flexibility Needed

  • Hip hinge flexibility
  • Shoulder external rotation

Build Up First

  • Basic hip hinge form
  • Core bracing technique

Also known as

Banded Rear Delt Fly, Band Bent-Over Reverse Fly, Resistance Band Rear Delt Raise

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