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Resistance Band 90-Degree Shoulder Internal Rotation

Beginner
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Isolation exercise using a resistance band to target the subscapularis and rotator cuff muscles at 90-degree abduction for shoulder stability and rehabilitation.

About Exercise

Equipment

Bands

Difficulty

2/5 • Beginner

Primary Muscle Groups

Shoulders

Secondary Muscles

Chest, Lats, Shoulders

Popularity Score

5

Goals

Stability
Rehab

Training Style

Functional Training

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

No

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Small

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Shoulders

10/10

Chest

5/10

Lats

4/10

Teres Major

Shoulders

3/10

Anterior Delts

Programming

Typical Rep Range

8-15 reps

Rest Between Sets

30-60 seconds

How to Perform

Anchor a resistance band at shoulder height to a sturdy point. Stand sideways to the anchor with light tension, feet shoulder-width apart, and position your working arm in 90/90 abduction-elbow flexion.

  1. Abduct your arm to shoulder height with elbow bent at 90 degrees, gripping the band.
  2. Keep upper arm fixed and elbow at shoulder level.
  3. Rotate forearm inward toward your body until hand nears abdomen.
  4. Pause briefly to feel shoulder contraction.
  5. Slowly return forearm to starting position under control.
  6. Repeat for reps, then switch sides.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Elbow stays at shoulder height
  • Upper arm remains stationary
  • Rotate from shoulder only
  • Core tight to avoid twisting
  • Controlled speed no momentum

Breathing

Inhale during the return phase; exhale as you rotate inward while bracing your core.

Tempo

2-1-2

Range of Motion

From forearm forward and parallel to floor to rotated inward with hand near abdomen, maintaining 90-degree angles.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Avoid if acute shoulder pain or injury exists
  • Warm up shoulders before performing
  • Stop if discomfort occurs beyond mild fatigue
  • Ensure secure anchor to prevent band snap
  • Consult professional for pre-existing conditions

Spotting

Not typically required; perform in front of mirror for form check or with partner for feedback.

Common Mistakes

  • Shrugging the shoulder
  • Flaring the elbow outward
  • Using body lean for momentum
  • Letting band snap back
  • Rotating the torso instead of isolating shoulder

When to Avoid

  • Acute shoulder impingement
  • Recent rotator cuff injury
  • Shoulder instability

Flexibility Needed

  • Shoulder abduction to 90 degrees
  • Elbow flexion without restriction

Build Up First

  • Basic understanding of shoulder positioning
  • Ability to maintain stable posture

Also known as

Band 90/90 Internal Rotation, Resisted Shoulder Internal Rotation, Rotator Cuff Band Rotation

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