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Shoulder rotators alternating on Cable Pulley

Isolated external rotation effectively trains the muscles of the shoulder joints.

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Preparation

Attach both rope pulls in the middle position.

Starting Position

Stand in front of the machine with an upright posture and feet parallel. Grab the loops with an overhand grip and bend your arms at shoulder height. Your fists should now be aligned exactly with the respective pillar of the power station.

Execution

Move your fist in a circular motion backwards and upwards. At the end of the movement, it should be at about the level of your head. Keep your upper arm as stable as possible and only move your forearm over the shoulder to execute the rotation purposefully.

Muscles Used

Shoulders

Please note

This exercise challenges you even with low weight. Therefore, start with a light load to learn the technique cleanly.

What makes this exercise particularly effective?

The Shoulder Rotators Alternating on Cable Machine on the EISENHORN DS is a targeted isolation exercise for the rotator cuff, especially the external rotators such as the infraspinatus and teres minor. By alternating the execution with both arms, the muscles are evenly stressed, leading to symmetrical strengthening. The cable pulley provides constant tension throughout the entire range of motion, which increases the effectiveness of the exercise.

What effect does the exercise achieve?

  • Targeted rotator cuff strengthening: This exercise specifically strengthens the external rotators, which are responsible for stabilizing the shoulder joint.

  • Improving shoulder stability: Strengthening the rotator cuff enhances shoulder joint stability and reduces the risk of injuries.

  • Improving flexibility: Regular rotator cuff training can improve the flexibility and mobility of the shoulder joint.

  • Correcting muscular imbalances: Alternating execution helps identify and balance muscular imbalances between the left and right sides of the body.

How does this exercise fit into the Big 5 concept?

The Big 5 include the fundamental exercises: squat, deadlift, bench press, pull-up or lat pulldown, and shoulder press. Even though Shoulder Rotators Alternating on Cable Machine is not part of the classical Big 5, it can be a meaningful addition:

  • Injury prevention: Strengthening the rotator cuff helps prevent shoulder injuries that may occur during Big 5 exercises.

  • Supporting pressing and pulling movements: A strong rotator cuff improves performance in shoulder presses and pull-ups.

  • Improving movement quality: By enhancing shoulder stability, execution of the Big 5 exercises becomes safer and more efficient.