Reverse Flyes Exercise

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

Reverse Flyes
Reverse Flyes
Level: beginner
Equipment: dumbbell
Force: pull
Mechanic: isolation
Core muscles: shoulders
Secondary muscle: none

Description

Reverse 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. To begin, lie down on an incline bench with the chest and stomach pressing against the incline. Have the dumbbells in each hand with the palms facing each other (neutral grip).
  2. Extend the arms in front of you so that they are perpendicular to the angle of the bench. The legs should be stationary while applying pressure with the ball of your toes. This is the starting position.
  3. Maintaining the slight bend of the elbows, move the weights out and away from each other (to the side) in an arc motion while exhaling. Tip: Try to squeeze your shoulder blades together to get the best results from this exercise.
  4. The arms should be elevated until they are parallel to the floor.
  5. Feel the contraction and slowly lower the weights back down to the starting position while inhaling.
  6. Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.

Exercise FAQ

How can I make this exercise harder without adding a lot of weight?

Slow down the lowering phase, add a brief pause in the hardest position, or increase total reps while keeping form crisp. Think of it as flye movement done with repeatable, clean reps.

How should I program this in a workout?

Use it after your warm-up when you’re fresh. Aim for 2–4 sets and choose a rep range that matches your goal (strength: lower reps; muscle: moderate reps).

Does grip or stance matter?

Yes—small changes can shift what you feel and how stable you are. Pick the most controlled position and keep it consistent while you learn the movement. Think of it as flye movement 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:

Seated Dumbbell Press

Seated Dumbbell Press

Grab a couple of dumbbells and sit on a military press bench or a utility bench that has a back support on ...

Kettlebell Pirate Ships

Kettlebell Pirate Ships

With a wide stance, hold a kettlebell with both hands. Allow it to hang at waist level with your arms exten...

Barbell Rear Delt Row

Barbell Rear Delt Row

Stand up straight while holding a barbell using a wide (higher than shoulder width) and overhand (palms fac...