Appears in642 Workouts*

Dumbbell Single-Arm Reverse Fly

Build a stronger back! Tone & strengthen your back muscles with the Dumbbell Single-Arm Reverse Fly. Proper form guide included.

The Dumbbell Single-Arm Reverse Fly mainly works the shoulders and back, with help from the traps. You'll need: dumbbells or exercise bench.

Mr. Grey
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Required Equipment

Dumbbells
Dumbbells
Exercise Bench
Exercise Bench

Dumbbell Single-Arm Reverse Fly Muscles Worked

Primary

Rotator Cuff (infraspinatus); Rhomboids (Shoulder Blade) (rhomboids, major & minor)

Secondary

Rear Shoulder (Delts) (posterior deltoid); Mid Traps (trapezius, middle fibers)

How to do the Dumbbell Single-Arm Reverse Fly

Dumbbell Single-Arm Reverse Fly Instructions

  • A sturdy bench or a pair of parallel bars for support

Starting Position:

  1. Stand next to the bench or bars with your feet shoulder-width apart.

  2. Hold a dumbbell in your right hand.

  3. Bend forward at the hips while keeping a straight back, allowing your torso to lean forward.

  4. Place your left hand on the bench or bars for support.

  5. Your right arm should hang straight down toward the floor, holding the dumbbell.

Movement:

  1. With a slight bend in your elbow, lift the dumbbell out to the side.

  2. Keep your arm parallel to the ground and focus on squeezing your shoulder blades together as you lift.

  3. Raise the dumbbell until your arm is level with your shoulder.

  4. Pause for a brief moment at the top of the movement, feeling the contraction in your upper back.

  5. Slowly lower the dumbbell back to the starting position, maintaining control throughout the movement.

Repetitions:

  • Aim for 8-12 repetitions on one side before switching to the left arm.

Tips:

  • Keep your core engaged to maintain stability during the exercise.

  • Avoid using momentum; focus on controlled movements for effectiveness.

  • Ensure your neck is relaxed, and don’t shrug your shoulders during the lift.

Progression:

  • As you become more comfortable with the movement, you can gradually increase the weight of the dumbbell or add more repetitions to your sets.

Dumbbell Single-Arm Reverse Fly FAQs

What muscles does the Dumbbell Single-Arm Reverse Fly work?

The Dumbbell Single-Arm Reverse Fly mainly works the shoulders and back, with help from the traps. The main muscles are the infraspinatus and rhomboids.

What equipment do you need for the Dumbbell Single-Arm Reverse Fly?

Dumbbells or exercise bench.

What workout day should the Dumbbell Single-Arm Reverse Fly go on?

It belongs on pull day in a push/pull/legs routine.

What are some Dumbbell Single-Arm Reverse Fly variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the Cable Reverse 45-Degree Fly, Dumbbell Standing Reverse Butterfly, Dumbbell Reverse Fly and Kettlebell Reverse Fly.

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