Appears in642 Workouts*

Seated 90-Degree Shoulder Internal Rotation

Strengthen your rotator cuffs! This exercise improves shoulder mobility & stability. Do it seated for a controlled, effective workout.

The Seated 90-Degree Shoulder Internal Rotation mainly works the shoulders, with help from the chest. You'll need: exercise bench or dumbbells or resistance bands.

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Required Equipment

Dumbbells
Dumbbells
Exercise Bench
Exercise Bench
Resistance Bands
Resistance Bands

Seated 90-Degree Shoulder Internal Rotation Muscles Worked

Primary

Shoulder Rotator (subscapularis)

Secondary

Front Shoulder (anterior deltoid); Chest (pectoralis major, sternal head)

How to do the Seated 90-Degree Shoulder Internal Rotation

  1. Begin by sitting on a flat bench with your back straight and feet planted on the floor for stability.

  2. Elevate your arm so that your shoulder is abducted to 90 degrees, and your elbow is bent at a 90-degree angle as well, giving the appearance of an 'L' shape. This is your starting position.

  3. If using resistance such as a dumbbell, hold it in the hand of the arm being exercised. Alternatively, if using a resistance band, secure one end and hold the other with the hand of the arm being exercised.

  4. Keep your elbow in line with your shoulder and pinned close to your side throughout the movement to maintain proper form and isolate the rotator cuff muscles.

  5. Without changing the angle of your elbow, slowly rotate your shoulder, moving your hand towards your abdomen. The range of motion may vary depending on flexibility, but aim for as close to touching your abdomen with your hand as comfortable.

  6. Pause briefly at the point of maximum internal rotation, then slowly return to the starting position, controlling the resistance and not allowing any jerky movements.

  7. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions and then switch arms.

  8. It is important to keep the movements controlled and slow, focusing on activating the rotator cuff muscles rather than using momentum.

  9. Make sure to breathe regularly throughout the exercise, exhaling during the internal rotation movement and inhaling as you return to the starting position.

Remember to warm up prior to performing this exercise, and consult with a fitness professional if you're new to this movement to ensure proper technique and safety.

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Seated 90-Degree Shoulder Internal Rotation FAQs

What muscles does the Seated 90-Degree Shoulder Internal Rotation work?

The Seated 90-Degree Shoulder Internal Rotation mainly works the shoulders, with help from the chest. The main muscles are the subscapularis.

What equipment do you need for the Seated 90-Degree Shoulder Internal Rotation?

Exercise bench or dumbbells or resistance bands.

What workout day should the Seated 90-Degree Shoulder Internal Rotation go on?

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

What are some Seated 90-Degree Shoulder Internal Rotation variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the Cable Kneeling Shoulder Internal Rotation, Cable 90-Degree Shoulder External Rotation, Cable 90-Degree Shoulder Internal Rotation and Cable Shoulder Internal 90-Rotation.

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