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Resistance Band Chest Fly

Beginner
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A resistance band isolation exercise targeting the chest through horizontal adduction, emphasizing the pectoralis major for strength and hypertrophy; ideal for home workouts with constant tension.

About Exercise

Equipment

Bands

Difficulty

2/5 • Beginner

Primary Muscle Groups

Chest

Secondary Muscles

Biceps

Popularity Score

8

Goals

Hypertrophy
Strength

Training Style

Functional Training
Bodybuilding

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

6/10

Anterior Delts

Biceps

3/10
Programming

Typical Rep Range

10-15 reps

Rest Between Sets

60-90 seconds

How to Perform

Secure a resistance band to a sturdy anchor at chest height. Stand facing away, step forward to create tension, extend arms out to sides with slight elbow bend, palms forward.

  1. Exhale and bring hands together in an arc in front of chest, squeezing pectorals.
  2. Pause briefly at peak contraction with hands meeting.
  3. Inhale and slowly return arms to starting position, resisting band tension.
  4. Keep elbows slightly bent and fixed throughout.
  5. Maintain core braced and chest up.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Squeeze chest at center
  • Keep elbows soft and fixed
  • Drive with pecs not arms
  • Stay tall through torso

Breathing

Inhale during the return phase; exhale as you bring hands together. Brace core before each rep.

Tempo

3-1-2

Range of Motion

Extend arms to shoulder height on sides until slight stretch; adduct until hands nearly touch in front of chest without locking elbows.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Inspect band for damage before use
  • Ensure anchor is secure and stable
  • Avoid overstretching band beyond 2.5 times length
  • Start with lighter resistance to master form
  • Do not release band under tension

Spotting

Spotting not required; use lighter bands or self-spot by reducing tension if needed.

Common Mistakes

  • Allowing elbows to straighten fully
  • Using momentum to swing arms
  • Letting shoulders shrug up
  • Releasing tension at start position

When to Avoid

  • Acute shoulder impingement
  • Recent pectoral strain

Flexibility Needed

  • Shoulder horizontal adduction range
  • Basic shoulder flexion

Build Up First

  • Understanding of mind-muscle connection
  • Proper bracing technique

Also known as

Band Chest Fly, Banded Chest Fly, Resistance Band Fly

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