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Exercises › Shoulders › Band Pull Apart

Band Pull Apart

Band Pull Apart is a beginner isolation band exercise that mainly works your shoulders, with help from your upper back and traps.

💪 Shoulders🏋️ Band📈 Beginner🔗 Isolation🎯 3 sets of 10-15 reps
Band Pull Apart: starting position
Starting position
Band Pull Apart: end position
End position

How to do the band pull apart

  1. Begin with your arms extended straight out in front of you, holding the band with both hands.
  2. Initiate the movement by performing a reverse fly motion, moving your hands out laterally to your sides.
  3. Keep your elbows extended as you perform the movement, bringing the band to your chest. Ensure that you keep your shoulders back during the exercise.
  4. Pause as you complete the movement, returning to the starting position under control.

Muscles worked

Primary: ShouldersSecondary: Upper backSecondary: Traps

Sets and reps

Do 3 sets of 10-15 reps with 60-90 seconds of rest, using a weight you can control through the full range. Add reps first, then weight.

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Band Pull Apart alternatives

Exercises that train the same main muscle, including options with other equipment.

Lateral RaiseDumbbell · BeginnerCar DriversBarbell · BeginnerCable Lateral RaiseCable · BeginnerReverse Machine FlyesMachine · BeginnerFront Plate RaiseOther · IntermediateInternal Rotation with BandBand · Beginner

FAQ

What muscles does the band pull apart work?

It mainly works your shoulders; your upper back and traps assist.

How many sets and reps of band pull apart should I do?

Do 3 sets of 10-15 reps with 60-90 seconds of rest, using a weight you can control through the full range. Add reps first, then weight.

Is the band pull apart good for beginners?

Yes. It is a beginner-friendly movement: start light and focus on the form steps above.

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