Chest Exercise · Dumbbell
Hyght Dumbbell Fly
This high-angle fly variation changes the bench angle enough to shift emphasis toward the upper chest and front delts compared to a flat fly, similar to how incline pressing changes the load compared to flat pressing. Controlling the stretch at the bottom matters more here than the weight used — flys put the shoulder in a vulnerable position if the arms drop too far.
Go to the movement stepsAlso known as: Hyght Db Fly, Hyght Dumbell Fly
Exercise reference published by PlanWorkouts; see our editorial standards.
How to Do the Hyght Dumbbell Fly
- Lie flat on a bench holding a dumbbell in each hand with your palms facing one another.
- Press your arms straight up above your chest, keeping a slight bend in the elbows.
- Maintaining that slight elbow bend, lower the dumbbells out to your sides in a wide arc until your chest feels a stretch.
- Pause briefly, then reverse the arc to bring the dumbbells back up to the start.
- Repeat for your desired repetitions, keeping constant tension on the working muscle throughout.
Quick Exercise Facts
Target Muscle Activation
Recommended Sets & Reps by Goal
Moderate weight · 60s rest
Lighter weight · 30–45s rest
Lower slowly for 3 seconds · 60s rest
Technique & Form Tips
Move your arms in a controlled arc toward the front of your body, focusing on horizontal adduction. Follow the demonstrated elbow angle and body support, ensuring your range of motion remains within your personal comfortable limits.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Turning fly into a press: Keep the demonstrated elbow bend instead of repeatedly bending and straightening the elbows to press the load.
- Overstretching: Limit the backward movement of your arms to a range that feels stable and comfortable.
- Rushing the contraction: Use a controlled tempo through the entire range, especially as your hands move toward the center.
How to Breathe During This Exercise
Coordinate your breath with the opening and closing phases of the movement.
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Comfort and Control
Choose a load and range you can control. Stop if the movement causes pain. If discomfort persists, stop and ask a qualified professional about an appropriate exercise and range.
General guidance: Mayo Clinic on weight-training technique. Follow the specific movement steps above for this variation.
Muscles Worked
The Hyght Dumbbell Fly mainly targets your Pectorals, with your Shoulders helping support the movement.
More Chest Exercises
Archer Push Up
Assisted Chest Dip (kneeling)
Assisted Seated Pectoralis Major Stretch With Stability Ball
Assisted Wide-Grip Chest Dip (kneeling)
Band Bench Press
Band One Arm Twisting Chest Press
More Pectorals Exercises
Barbell Bench Press
Barbell Decline Bench Press
Barbell Decline Pullover
Barbell Decline Wide-Grip Press
Barbell Front Raise And Pullover
Barbell Guillotine Bench Press
Equipment Alternatives
Don't have dumbbell? These target the same pectorals with different equipment.
FAQ
- What muscles does the Hyght Dumbbell Fly work?
- The Hyght Dumbbell Fly mainly works your pectorals. Your shoulders also works to help support and steady your body. Using good, smooth form makes sure you work the right muscles and avoid unnecessary strain on your joints.
- What equipment do I need for the Hyght Dumbbell Fly?
- You do the Hyght Dumbbell Fly with a dumbbell. Make sure your equipment is set up safely before starting. If you work out at home or have limited gear, check out our alternative exercises below.
- What form mistake should I watch for on the Hyght Dumbbell Fly?
- One mistake to watch for is turning fly into a press: Keep the demonstrated elbow bend instead of repeatedly bending and straightening the elbows to press the load.. Use a comfortable range and a controlled return; reduce the load if you cannot maintain the demonstrated setup.
- How many sets and reps should I perform on the Hyght Dumbbell Fly?
- To tone and grow muscle, do 3 to 4 sets of 10 to 15 smooth reps with 60 seconds of rest, focusing on a full stretch and squeezing the muscle at the top of each rep.
- What's a good alternative to the Hyght Dumbbell Fly?
- The Cable Decline Fly trains your pectorals with cable and a similar movement pattern. Review its form guide before substituting it, since setup and range of motion can differ.