External Rotation with Band

A resistance band variation of external rotation that targets the shoulder and rotator cuff with variable resistance for shoulder health.
Instructions
- Attach the resistance band to a sturdy post or anchor point at approximately elbow height.
- Stand perpendicular to the anchor point, a couple of feet away, with your side toward the band.
- Grasp the end of the band with your hand on the side closest to the anchor point.
- Keep your elbow firmly pressed to your side; consider holding a foam roll or pad against your elbow for stability.
- Bend your elbow to 90 degrees with your forearm reaching across the front of your torso. This is your starting position.
- Execute the movement by rotating your arm outward in a backhand motion, keeping your elbow stationary.
- Continue rotating as far as comfortably possible.
- Pause briefly at the end of the range of motion.
- Return to the starting position in a controlled manner.
- Complete the desired repetitions, then switch sides.
Tips
- Keep your upper arm and elbow completely stationary throughout the movement.
- Use steady, controlled motions without jerking.
- The band provides increasing resistance as you rotate farther, which is beneficial for strength development.
- This is an excellent exercise for shoulder stability and rotator cuff health.
- Can be performed with various band resistance levels.
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 |
Alternatives
Exercises that target the same muscles with the same force and mechanic.
Bent Over Dumbbell Rear Delt Raise With Head On Bench
Learn more about bent over dumbbell rear delt raise with head on bench beginner strength
Bent Over Lateral Raise (Cable)
Learn more about bent over lateral raise (cable) intermediate strength
beginner strength
Bent Over Rear Delt Raise (Dumbbell)
Learn more about bent over rear delt raise (dumbbell) beginner strength
beginner strength
Diagonal Raise (Cable)
Learn more about diagonal raise (cable) intermediate strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
Landmine Rear Delt Fly (Barbell)
Learn more about landmine rear delt fly (barbell) intermediate strength
intermediate strength
Lying One-Arm Rear Lateral Raise (Dumbbell)
Learn more about lying one-arm rear lateral raise (dumbbell) intermediate strength
intermediate strength
intermediate strength
Machine Rear Delt Fly
Learn more about machine rear delt fly beginner strength
Machine Rear Delt Row
Learn more about machine rear delt row beginner strength
Prone YTW Raise (Dumbbell)
Learn more about prone ytw raise (dumbbell) intermediate strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
Rear Delt Fly (Band)
Learn more about rear delt fly (band) beginner strength
beginner strength
Rear Delt Fly (Sled)
Learn more about rear delt fly (sled) beginner strength
Rear Delt Fly (TRX / Suspension Trainer)
Learn more about rear delt fly (trx / suspension trainer) intermediate strength
Rear Delt Raises
Learn more about rear delt raises intermediate strength
Rear Delt Row (Smith Machine)
Learn more about rear delt row (smith machine) intermediate strength
Reverse Fly (Band)
Learn more about reverse fly (band) beginner strength
intermediate strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
intermediate strength
beginner strength
intermediate strength
beginner strength