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Cable Cross-over Reverse Fly

The cable cross-over reverse fly is an isolation exercise targeting the rear deltoids, with secondary emphasis on the rhomboids and trapezius. It is performed using a cable crossover machine and requires good posture, control, and coordination.

Quick Facts

Body PartsShoulders
Target MusclesDelts
Secondary MusclesRhomboids and Trapezius
EquipmentCable
DifficultyIntermediate
Exercise TypeStrength
BilateralYes

How to Do Cable Cross-over Reverse Fly

Follow these step-by-step instructions to perform Cable Cross-over Reverse Fly with proper form and technique.

  1. Attach a D-handle to each low pulley cable and stand in the middle of the cable crossover machine.
  2. Grasp the handles with a pronated grip (palms facing down) and take a step forward, positioning your feet shoulder-width apart.
  3. Bend your knees slightly and lean forward at the waist, keeping your back straight and your abs engaged.
  4. With your arms extended out to the sides and slightly bent at the elbows, exhale and squeeze your shoulder blades together as you pull the cables back and upward in a reverse fly motion.
  5. Pause for a moment at the peak contraction, then inhale and slowly return to the starting position.
  6. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

Muscles Worked

Understanding which muscles Cable Cross-over Reverse Fly targets helps you integrate it effectively into your training program.

Target Muscles

These are the main muscles responsible for performing the movement and receive the greatest training stimulus.

Delts

Secondary Muscles

These muscles assist in the movement and receive secondary training benefits.

RhomboidsTrapezius

Benefits of Cable Cross-over Reverse Fly

Incorporating Cable Cross-over Reverse Fly into your workout routine offers numerous advantages for strength, muscle development, and overall fitness.

  • Delts Development: Cable Cross-over Reverse Fly directly targets and strengthens the Delts, promoting muscle growth and improved functional strength.
  • Secondary Muscle Engagement: This exercise also works the Rhomboids and Trapezius, providing additional training stimulus without extra exercises.
  • Constant Tension: Cable machines provide consistent resistance throughout the entire range of motion, maximizing muscle engagement and time under tension.
  • Functional Strength: Strength exercises like Cable Cross-over Reverse Fly build real-world strength that transfers to daily activities and athletic performance.

Safety Tips and Precautions

Performing Cable Cross-over Reverse Fly safely is essential for preventing injuries and ensuring long-term progress.

  • Warm Up Properly: Before performing Cable Cross-over Reverse Fly, complete 5-10 minutes of light cardio followed by dynamic stretches targeting the Delts and surrounding muscles.
  • Prioritize Form Over Weight: Never sacrifice proper technique for heavier weights. Poor form significantly increases injury risk and reduces the exercise's effectiveness.
  • Check Cable Condition: Before use, inspect the cable for any signs of fraying or damage. Ensure the attachment is securely connected.
  • Shoulder Protection: Avoid flaring your elbows excessively, which can strain the shoulder joint. Keep your shoulders packed and stable.
  • Respect Your Range of Motion: Work within your current mobility limits. Gradually improve flexibility over time rather than forcing deeper positions.
  • Don't Hold Your Breath: Maintain consistent breathing throughout the exercise. Exhale during the exertion phase and inhale during the easier phase.
  • Know When to Stop: End your set when you can no longer maintain proper form. Training to absolute failure on every set increases injury risk.
  • Allow Adequate Recovery: The Delts typically need 48-72 hours to recover after intense training. Avoid training the same muscle group on consecutive days.

Tracking Your Progress

To make consistent gains with Cable Cross-over Reverse Fly, track these metrics during your workouts:

Sets

Track the number of sets you complete. Most training programs recommend 3-5 sets per exercise.

Reps

Record your repetitions per set. Adjust rep ranges based on your goals: 1-5 for strength, 6-12 for hypertrophy, 12+ for endurance.

Weight

Log the weight used for progressive overload. Aim to gradually increase weight while maintaining proper form.

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