
Which muscles does it train?
ChestShoulders
Equipment needed
How to perform it
For strength, 3 to 5 sets of 3 to 6 reps with 2 to 4 minutes of rest are common. For hypertrophy, use 3 to 4 sets of 6 to 12 reps with 60 to 120 seconds of rest.
Execution and technique cues
- Set the pulleys to the lowest position, grab the handles, and take one step forward into a staggered stance.
- Keep a slight bend in the elbows, chest up, and pull the shoulder blades back.
- Sweep the hands upward and inward in a wide arc until they meet in front of the upper chest.
- Squeeze the upper chest at the peak, then slowly lower the weights back to the starting stretch under control.
Common mistakes
- Bending and straightening the elbows excessively, turning the fly into a press.
- Using momentum or leaning the body forward to push the weight up rather than using the chest.
- Allowing the shoulders to roll forward at the top of the movement.
Frequently asked questions
- Which part of the chest does this exercise target?
- The low-to-high path of motion specifically emphasizes the clavicular head of the pectoralis major, also known as the upper chest.
- Should my hands cross over each other at the top?
- Crossing the hands slightly can increase the contraction of the chest, but it is not mandatory for a highly effective workout.
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