Front Delt

Banded Internal Shoulder Rotations with a band

The shoulder exercise Internal Rotations with a band is designed to specifically strengthen the rotator cuff, especially the internal rotators. This exercise trains the internal rotation of the shoulder joint against resistance, improving the strength and control of the shoulder muscles.

A similar exercise is the external rotation with a band. This exercise targets the external rotators of the shoulder (mainly the infraspinatus and teres minor muscles), which act as antagonists to the internal rotators.

Banded Internal Shoulder Rotations with a band - the correct execution

  • Secure the red resistance band at chest height to a stable post or similar anchor point
  • Stand sideways to the anchor point so that your left arm is farthest from the band
  • Hold the band with your left hand, keeping your elbow bent at a 90-degree angle and close to your body
  • Maintain a stable and upright posture, with feet about hip-width apart
  • Perform the internal rotation by moving your left hand slowly toward the center of your body, without lifting the elbow from your side
  • Ensure that the movement comes from the shoulder and the rest of the body remains still
  • Slowly and controlled, return to the starting position
  • Repeat the movement at a steady pace, focusing on proper form

The exercise Banded Internal Rotations is intended to be used as a mobility, warm up exercise.

Which muscles are trained by Banded Internal Rotations?

Primary trained muscles for Banded Internal Rotations

  • Front Delts - The front part of the deltoid muscle, also known as the anterior shoulder, is located at the front of the shoulder. It is primarily involved in the forward movement of the arm, such as lifting the arm forward. It also assists in the internal rotation of the arm. This muscle is engaged in activities that involve lifting objects in front of the body or pushing forward.

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Similar exercises to Banded Internal Rotations

Rear Delt

Banded External Shoulder Rotations with a Band

Band external rotations are an effective exercise for strengthening the rotator cuff, especially the external rotators (infraspinatus and teres minor), which rotate the upper arm outward in the shoulder joint (away from the body center, or backward). This exercise improves shoulder joint stability and helps prevent injuries. To perform it, anchor a resistance band at a fixed point, and with a 90° bend in the elbow, rotate the arm outward while keeping the upper arm close to the body.

Band rotator training is an ideal complement to pressing exercises like shoulder presses or dips and is excellent as a warm-up before strength training or as an accessory exercise afterward. Alternatively, face pulls are also beneficial, as they similarly engage and strengthen the shoulder's external rotators.

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Upper Back, Rear Delt, Side Delt

Face Pulls with gym rings

Face pulls are an exercise specifically designed to strengthen the rear shoulder muscles and the upper back. By pulling towards the face and rotating the arms outward, the rotator cuff and rear deltoids are activated, which helps to build shoulder strength and prevent shoulder injuries. This exercise is particularly effective in correcting muscular imbalances in the shoulder area and can also promote better posture.

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Banded Shoulder Dislocates

Arm Circles with a Band, also known as Banded Shoulder Dislocates, are a warm-up and mobility exercise that specifically targets stretching in the front shoulders and chest. As the shoulders circle, the band stays under tension, leading to an especially deep stretch in the shoulders and chest when the band is pulled behind the head. This exercise is ideal for warming up or promoting shoulder health and can be used as an alternative or addition to classic Arm Circles forward or backward without a band.

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