Appears in642 Workouts*

Standing Y Up

Improve posture and shoulder mobility! The Standing Y Up strengthens upper back muscles for better alignment.

The Standing Y Up mainly works the shoulders, with help from the back and traps. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.

Mr. Grey
JustGains_XY
@JustGains_XY

Standing Y Up Muscles Worked

Primary

Side Shoulder (lateral deltoid); Rear Shoulder (Delts) (posterior deltoid)

Secondary

Rhomboids (Shoulder Blade) (rhomboids, major & minor); Upper Traps (trapezius, upper fibers)

How to do the Standing Y Up

  1. Starting Position:

    • Stand up straight with your feet shoulder-width apart.

    • Engage your core and keep a neutral spine.

    • Let your arms hang down at your sides.

  2. Movement Phase:

    • Slowly raise your arms out to your sides and upward, forming a "Y" shape with your body.

    • Keep your palms facing forward as your arms reach up. Your thumbs should point slightly backward.

    • Aim to raise your arms until they are fully extended above your head.

  3. Hold the Position:

    • At the top of the movement, pause for a moment, squeezing your shoulder blades together.

    • Maintain the tension in your shoulders and arms.

  4. Return to Start:

    • From the raised position, slowly lower your arms back down to your sides in a controlled manner.

    • Maintain good posture throughout the movement.

  5. Repetitions:

    • Repeat for the desired number of repetitions, typically 10-15 for beginners.

Tips:

  • Focus on slow, controlled movements to engage the shoulder muscles effectively.

  • Keep your shoulders relaxed and avoid shrugging them up towards your ears during the exercise.

  • Ensure your core stays engaged to help maintain stability throughout the exercise.

Standing Y Up FAQs

What muscles does the Standing Y Up work?

The Standing Y Up mainly works the shoulders, with help from the back and traps. The main muscles are the lateral deltoid and posterior deltoid.

What equipment do you need for the Standing Y Up?

None. The Standing Y Up is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.

What workout day should the Standing Y Up go on?

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

What are some Standing Y Up variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the Alternating Against-Wall Shoulder Flexion, Arms-Up Down, Bodyweight Standing Front Raise to Opener and Bodyweight Standing Outer Push.

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