Shoulders / Beginner / Isolation (single joint)

External Rotation with Cable

A cable isolation exercise for the rotator cuff.

At a glance

Primary

Rotator cuff

Equipment

Cable station

Movement pattern

Shoulder rotation

Level

Beginner

Type

Shoulders, Isolation (single joint)

How to do it

1. Adjust the cable to the same height as your elbow. Stand with your left side to the band a couple of feet away.
2. Grasp the handle with your right hand, and keep your elbow pressed firmly to your side. We recommend you hold a pad or foam roll in place with your elbow to keep it firmly in position.
3. With your upper arm in position, your elbow should be flexed to 90 degrees with your hand reaching across the front of your torso. This will be your starting position.
4. Execute the movement by rotating your arm in a backhand motion, keeping your elbow in place.

Common mistakes

• ✗ Elbow drifts away from the body.

  Why it hurts: The movement turns into a shoulder swing and the small cuff muscles do not work.

  ✓ Instead: Tuck a rolled towel between the elbow and ribs and keep it there.

• ✗ Using a heavy band.

  Why it hurts: The rotator cuff is small; heavy loads make bigger muscles take over and can irritate the tendons.

  ✓ Instead: Choose a light band for 15–20 slow, controlled reps.

Open in the appGet started