External Rotation (Band)
An isolation exercise that targets the rotator cuff muscles, specifically the rotator-cuff of the shoulder, using a light resistance band.
Instructions
- Tie a resistance band to a fixed point at elbow height.
- Stand with your side toward the anchor point.
- Bend your elbow to 90 degrees and tuck it against your torso.
- Hold the band with the hand closest to the anchor point.
- Rotate your forearm outward away from your body against the band resistance.
- Pause briefly at the end of the rotation.
- Return your forearm to the starting position in a controlled manner.
Tips
- Keep your elbow stationary against your side throughout the movement.
- Use a light resistance to avoid overloading the rotator cuff.
- Move slowly and deliberately for better control.
- This exercise is essential for shoulder health and injury prevention.
- Perform the exercise equally on both sides for balanced rotator cuff development.
Recommended starting values
Sensible novice starting points for each goal, for a lifter aged 25–40. Scale down for smaller frames or older lifters. Treat the first set of any session as a discovery set.
| Goal | Sets | Reps |
|---|---|---|
| Gain strength | 3 | 9 reps |
| Build muscle | 3 | 13 reps |
| Build endurance | 3 | 16 reps |