Resistance-Band Standing Y-Raise
Strengthen your shoulders & improve posture with Resistance-Band Standing Y-Raises! A simple yet effective exercise.
The Resistance-Band Standing Y-Raise mainly works the shoulders and traps, with help from the back. You'll need: resistance bands.
Required Equipment

Resistance-Band Standing Y-Raise Muscles Worked
Primary
Side Shoulder (lateral deltoid); Upper Traps (trapezius, upper fibers)
Secondary
Shoulder Abductor (supraspinatus); Rhomboids (Shoulder Blade) (rhomboids, major & minor)
Resistance-Band Standing Y-Raise Variations and Alternatives
How to do the Resistance-Band Standing Y-Raise
Setup:
Begin by standing on the center of a resistance band with your feet shoulder-width apart. Ensure there is enough tension in the band when your arms are down by your sides.
Starting Position:
Hold the ends of the resistance band in each hand. Your arms should be straight down at your sides, palms facing inwards.
Keep your spine neutral, engage your core, and maintain a slight bend in your knees to support your balance.
Movement:
Inhale deeply and begin to raise your arms upward in a 'Y' shape. Your arms should be lifted at about a 30-45 degree angle from your body.
Keep your thumbs pointing up towards the ceiling. This position helps engage your shoulder muscles effectively.
As you raise your arms, maintain tension in the resistance band. Ensure that your shoulders are down and away from your ears; avoid shrugging them.
Peak Position:
When your arms are fully extended upward, pause for a moment at the top of the movement. Ensure that your elbows remain straight and your core is engaged.
Lowering:
Slowly lower your arms back to the starting position while exhaling. Control the movement to maintain tension in the band throughout.
Repetitions:
Perform 10-15 repetitions, ensuring to maintain proper form throughout the exercise.
Tips:
If you are new to this exercise, start with a lighter resistance band to master the form before progressing to a heavier one.
Focus on slow and controlled movements to engage the target muscles effectively.
Safety:
Ensure the resistance band is secured and free of any damages before starting the exercise.
If you experience any pain or discomfort, stop the exercise and resume once you're ready.
Resistance-Band Standing Y-Raise FAQs
What muscles does the Resistance-Band Standing Y-Raise work?
The Resistance-Band Standing Y-Raise mainly works the shoulders and traps, with help from the back. The main muscles are the lateral deltoid and trapezius.
What equipment do you need for the Resistance-Band Standing Y-Raise?
Resistance bands.
What workout day should the Resistance-Band Standing Y-Raise go on?
It belongs on push day in a push/pull/legs routine.
What are some Resistance-Band Standing Y-Raise variations and alternatives?
Similar exercises include the Backhand Raise, Band Lateral Front Raise, Band Front Raise and Band Incline T Raise.
Training calculators
Work out the numbers behind your training before your next session.




