6 Resistance Band Exercises for Shoulders


If you want an easy way to work out your shoulders, a resistance band might be the ideal fitness equipment for you. Resistance bands are small, portable, and inexpensive to purchase, so you may bring a set with you when traveling or on the go.

Resistance band shoulder exercises are effective and easy to perform, making them suitable for a wide range of fitness levels and abilities.

If you're looking for a new workout challenge, try incorporating resistance band exercises into your routine.

These exercises focus on shoulder mobility, while also working smaller muscles that assist with stability, like the rotator cuff. Keep reading to learn some resistance band exercises for your shoulder muscles and the benefits of training with resistance bands.


1. Reverse fly
By doing this exercise, you will make your shoulders, upper back, and arms stronger. Additionally, it helps improve posture. If you often sit or do forward-bending movements, this exercise is ideal for you.

  1. Position yourself in the center of the band.
  2. Cross the ends in front of your lower legs.
  3. Keep a slight bend in your knees and hinge at your hips to lower your torso forward while keeping your spine long and neutral.
  4. Grip the band tight, then lift it upwards and out to the sides until your hands are even with or higher than your chest.
  5. Pull your shoulder blades towards each other.
  6. Hold this pose for a few seconds.
  7. Return to the starting position gradually.


2. Front raise
This exercise tones your front (anterior) shoulders. Draw your shoulder blades down, elongate your spine, and contract your abdominals to maintain good posture.

  1. Position yourself in the center of the band, holding an end in each hand so that the band crosses over your lower legs.
  2. Place your hands on your thighs.
  3. Raise your arms straight in front of you until they're at shoulder height. Avoid swinging or rocking back as you raise them.
  4. Return to the beginning position.


3. Lateral raise
This exercise not only strengthens your shoulders and upper back but also engages your core muscles.

  1. Get in the middle of the resistance band.
  2. Cross the band in front of your lower legs and hold each end with the opposite hand, making sure that your palms are facing inward.
  3. As you raise your arms to the sides, keep a small bend in your elbows.
  4. Raise your arms above your head and hold for a few seconds.
  5. Return to the starting position slowly.


4. Standing row
This exercise strengthens your lats, rhomboids, and trapezius. As you complete the movement, bring your shoulder blades together. To avoid hunching your shoulders and neck pain, keep your neck relaxed.

  1. Attach the resistance band to a doorknob or a fixed object.
  2. Take a handle in each hand, maintaining your forearms parallel to the floor.
  3. Move your arms straight back to the sides of your ribs by bending your elbows. Keep your back and ribs neutral rather than arched or thrusting forward.
  4. Return to the starting position slowly.


5. Band pull-apart
This exercise targets your rear shoulders and upper back, which helps to alleviate and prevent rounded shoulders. It also increases shoulder stability, allowing you to execute overhead movements more easily.

This workout is perfect for people who often slouch. To amp up the resistance, move your hands closer to the band.

  1. Hold the band and raise your arms straight out in front of you.
  2. Straighten your back and keep your elbows slightly bent.
  3. Pull the band as far apart from each other as you can.
  4. Bring your shoulder blades closer together.
  5. Maintain this position for a few seconds.
  6. Return to the starting position slowly.


6. Overhead band pull-apart
This exercise focuses on your shoulders, back, and triceps. It promotes stability, mobility, and posture.

  1. Straighten the band over your head.
  2. Extend your arms over your head and pull the band apart as you lower your arms to shoulder height, placing your hands out to the sides.
  3. Maintain this position for a few seconds.
  4. Return to the starting position, with your shoulder blades, tucked down and away from your ears.



What are the benefits of resistance bands?
Resistance band training has a long list of advantages. You may use these workouts on your own or in addition to weight-based exercises.


Safe for your shoulders and low impact
Low-impact and safe, this workout is ideal. You may apply resistance at any angle without the need for gravity, allowing you to concentrate on various parts and degrees of rotation.

Exercises that focus on building strength, stability, and mobility can help you shoulder the responsibility of maintaining your health and preventing injury.


Can be modified to suit individual needs
Resistance bands increase in resistance the further you stretch them. This is also why the exercises become more difficult as the bands are stretched and easier as there is more slack.

As a result, it's simple to change the intensity of a movement. To meet your demands, you may alter the resistance level.


Portable, low-cost, and simple to use
Because they are portable, inexpensive, and easy to use, resistance bands can easily become part of your workout routine. In addition, they allow for a wide range of variations and adaptations. Exercising with resistance bands not only increases flexibility and mobility but also helps to fix muscular imbalances.

If you're performing these exercises after an accident or surgery, talk to your doctor first.


Final Word
Working out with resistance bands is a great way to tone your shoulders and improve flexibility. Add them to your workout routine and seek assistance from a physical therapist, doctor, or personal trainer if you want help or have any medical issues. If you experience any pain or discomfort, stop practicing, especially if you’re recovering from an injury.

Do you use resistance bands in your workout routine? What are some of your favorite exercises? Let us know in the comments below!