Flat Bench Cable Flyes Exercise

Builds strength and control by improving stability, coordination, and efficient movement.

Flat Bench Cable Flyes
Flat Bench Cable Flyes
Level: intermediate
Equipment: cable
Force: push
Mechanic: isolation
Core muscles: chest
Secondary muscle: none

Description

Flat bench cable flyes focuses on controlled movement and maintaining proper body alignment throughout the exercise. The goal is to create tension where needed while avoiding unnecessary strain or momentum. This helps improve movement quality, joint stability, and overall physical control.

Instructions:

  1. Position a flat bench between two low pulleys so that when you are laying on it, your chest will be lined up with the cable pulleys.
  2. Lay flat on the bench and keep your feet on the ground.
  3. Have someone hand you the handles on each hand. You will grab each single handle attachment with a palms up grip.
  4. Extend your arms by your side with a slight bend on your elbows. Tip: You will keep this bend constant through the whole movement. Your arms should be parallel to the floor. This is your starting position.
  5. Now start lifting the arms in a semi-circle motion directly in front of you by pulling the cables together until both hands meet at the top of the movement. Squeeze your chest as you perform this motion and breathe out during this movement. Also, hold the contraction for a second at the top. Tip: When performed correctly, at the top position of this movement, your arms should be perpendicular to your torso and the floor touching above your chest.
  6. Slowly come back to the starting position.
  7. Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.

Exercise FAQ

How long or how many reps is enough?

Stop when you can’t keep alignment. Quality beats duration—shorter sets with perfect form are more effective than long shaky holds. Think of it as pressing done with repeatable, clean reps.

When should I place this in my workout?

It works well in a warm-up for activation or at the end for focused core work. Keep the effort controlled, not maxed out. Think of it as pressing done with repeatable, clean reps.

Should I hold my breath during the effort?

No—use controlled breathing. A steady exhale on the hard part helps you keep tension without losing position. Think of it as pressing done with repeatable, clean reps.

Disclaimer

This content is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical or fitness advice. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before beginning any new exercise routine. Exercise safely and listen to your body.

Alternative exercises:

Pushups (Close and Wide Hand Positions)

Pushups (Close and Wide Hand Positions)

Lie on the floor face down and body straight with your toes on the floor and the hands wider than shoulder ...

Neck Press

Neck Press

Lie back on a flat bench. Using a medium-width grip (a grip that creates a 90-degree angle in the middle of...

Incline Dumbbell Flyes - With A Twist

Incline Dumbbell Flyes - With A Twist

Hold a dumbbell in each hand and lie on an incline bench that is set to an incline angle of no more than 30...