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.
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)
Standing Y Up Variations and Alternatives
How to do the Standing Y Up
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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