Mighty Logo
Mighty
← Back to library
Last updated February 2, 2026
Media unavailable
chest

Chest Fly - Upper (Cable)

Set pulleys low. Pull the handles upward and together to face height. Focus on squeezing the upper shelf of your chest.

Quick facts

Difficulty
Moderate
Mechanic
Isolation
Force
Push
Type
Strength
Injury Risk
Moderate
Hypertrophy
High
Calorie Burn
Medium

Muscle focus

Primary and secondary muscle groups targeted by this movement.

Primary

upper chest

Secondary

front shoulders

Equipment & setup

What you need and how to position yourself before starting.

Equipment

cable

Movement pattern

Bilateral

Posture

Standing

Tracking parameters

repsweight

Step-by-step instructions

Follow these cues to master proper technique and stay safe through every rep.

  1. Step 1Setup
    • Adjust the cable machine to the appropriate height, typically set at shoulder level.
    • Select the desired weight on the cable machine.
  2. Step 2Grab the Handles
    • Stand in the center of the cable machine with one handle in each hand.
    • Use an overhand grip to hold the handles with your palms facing forward.
  3. Step 3Position Your Body
    • Step slightly forward to create tension in the cables while keeping your feet shoulder-width apart.
    • Engage your core and maintain a slight bend in your elbows.
  4. Step 4Start the Movement
    • With your elbows slightly bent, pull the handles out to the sides in a wide arc.
    • Focus on squeezing your chest muscles as you bring the handles outward.
  5. Step 5Return to Starting Position
    • Slowly bring the handles back together in front of your chest, maintaining control throughout the movement.
    • Keep your elbows slightly bent and avoid locking them out.
  6. Step 6Repeat
    • Perform the desired number of repetitions, ensuring proper form and control with each rep.
    • Focus on the contraction of your chest muscles during each repetition.
  7. Step 7Finish the Exercise
    • After completing your reps, carefully release the handles and step back from the cable machine.
    • Ensure that you maintain a straight posture as you finish the exercise.
Version 1 · Created November 12, 2025