Exercise 0235 · REF FWdVhcW
Cable external rotation trains a small rotator cuff muscle that almost no compound lift hits directly, rotating the forearm outward against resistance with the elbow pinned to the side. It's typically programmed for shoulder health rather than size, often paired with internal rotation work to balance the joint. Keeping the elbow fixed against the body throughout is what isolates the rotator cuff instead of turning it into a lateral raise.
How to Do the Cable Standing Shoulder External Rotation
- Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and your knees slightly bent.
- Hold the cable handle with your arm extended in front of you, parallel to the ground.
- Keep your elbow slightly bent and your shoulder blades pulled back.
- Slowly rotate your arm outward, away from your body, while keeping your elbow in the same position.
- Pause for a moment at the end of the movement, then slowly return to the starting position.
- Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.
Muscles Worked
The Cable Standing Shoulder External Rotation primarily targets the Delts, with Rotator Cuff as the primary synergist muscle group, along with the Trapezius.
More Shoulders Exercises
Band Front Lateral Raise
Band Front Raise
Band Reverse Fly
Band Shoulder Press
Band Standing Rear Delt Row
Band Twisting Overhead Press
More Delts Exercises
Band Y-Raise
Barbell Front Raise
Barbell One Arm Snatch
Barbell Rear Delt Raise
Barbell Rear Delt Row
Barbell Seated Behind Head Military Press
Equipment Alternatives
Don't have cable? These target the same delts with different equipment.
FAQ
- What muscles does the Cable Standing Shoulder External Rotation work?
- The Cable Standing Shoulder External Rotation primarily targets the delts, with the rotator cuff and trapezius assisting.
- What equipment do I need for the Cable Standing Shoulder External Rotation?
- The Cable Standing Shoulder External Rotation is done with a cable.
- What's a good alternative to the Cable Standing Shoulder External Rotation?
- If you don't have access to a cable, the Left Hook. Boxing targets the same delts using body weight instead.