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Resistance Band Rear Delt Fly

Beginner
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A resistance band isolation exercise that targets the rear deltoids to build shoulder stability and improve posture; provides constant tension as a joint-friendly alternative to cables.

About Exercise

Equipment

Bands

Difficulty

2/5 • Beginner

Primary Muscle Groups

Shoulders

Secondary Muscles

Forearms

Popularity Score

7

Goals

Hypertrophy
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

Mid Traps, Lower Traps

Forearms

3/10

Flexors

Programming

Typical Rep Range

10-20 reps

Rest Between Sets

60-90 seconds

How to Perform

Secure a resistance band to a chest-height anchor point. Stand facing the anchor with feet shoulder-width apart, holding one end in each hand with arms extended forward and tension in the band.

  1. Keep elbows slightly bent and pull bands outward and backward.
  2. Squeeze shoulder blades together as hands reach sides.
  3. Pause briefly at peak contraction.
  4. Slowly return to start, resisting the band's pull.
  5. Maintain tall posture and engaged core throughout.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Squeeze shoulder blades
  • Keep shoulders down
  • Elbows slightly bent
  • Chest lifted
  • Controlled pull

Breathing

Inhale as you return to start; exhale as you pull the bands apart while bracing your core.

Tempo

3-1-2

Range of Motion

Extend arms from straight forward to wide at sides with slight elbow bend, until shoulder blades are fully retracted without hyperextending elbows.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Inspect band for damage before use
  • Avoid if acute shoulder pain present
  • Start with light resistance to master form
  • Keep neutral spine to prevent lower back strain

Spotting

Not required; bands provide self-limiting resistance. Use lighter band if form breaks.

Common Mistakes

  • Shrugging shoulders
  • Using momentum
  • Rounding back
  • Locking elbows
  • Allowing slack in band

When to Avoid

  • Shoulder impingement
  • Recent rotator cuff injury

Flexibility Needed

  • Adequate shoulder horizontal abduction range
  • Thoracic extension mobility

Build Up First

  • Basic understanding of shoulder retraction
  • Proper hinge form for bent-over variations

Also known as

Banded Rear Delt Fly, Band Rear Fly, Resistance Band Reverse Fly

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