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Shoulders exercise · cable

Cable Standing Shoulder External Rotation

The cable standing shoulder external rotation is a cable exercise that targets the shoulders (deltoids), with the rotator cuff and trapezius assisting.

Animated demonstration of the cable standing shoulder external rotation
Cable Standing Shoulder External Rotation — demonstration
Target muscle
Delts
Also works
Rotator cuff, trapezius
Equipment
Cable
Body part
Shoulders

How to do the cable standing shoulder external rotation

  1. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and your knees slightly bent.
  2. Hold the cable handle with your arm extended in front of you, parallel to the ground.
  3. Keep your elbow slightly bent and your shoulder blades pulled back.
  4. Slowly rotate your arm outward, away from your body, while keeping your elbow in the same position.
  5. Pause for a moment at the end of the movement, then slowly return to the starting position.
  6. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

Sets and reps

For muscle growth, 3–4 sets of 8–12 reps with 60–90 seconds of rest is a proven starting point. For strength, use a heavier weight for 3–5 sets of 3–6 reps and rest 2–3 minutes. Add a little weight once you hit the top of your rep range on every set.

Muscles worked

The main muscle is the shoulders (deltoids). The rotator cuff and trapezius work as secondary muscles. See all shoulder exercises or every cable exercise.

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