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Last updated March 11, 2026
Shoulders
Rear Delt Fly - Lever Side, Seated, Single Arm
Work one arm at a time. Move your arm out to the side in a wide arc. Keep your chest pressed firmly against the pad to prevent cheating.
Quick facts
- Level
- Beginner
- Mechanic
- Isolation
- Force
- Pull
- Injury Risk
- Low
- Hypertrophy
- High
- Calorie Burn
- Low-Medium
Muscle focus
Primary and secondary muscle groups targeted by this movement.
Primary
Rear Shoulders
Secondary
Upper Back / Rhomboids
Equipment & setup
What you need and how to position yourself before starting.
Equipment
Leverage Machine
Movement pattern
Unilateral
Posture
Seated
Tracking parameters
weightreps
Step-by-step instructions
Follow these cues to master proper technique and stay safe through every rep.
- Step 1Setup
- Sit on the lever machine with your back against the pad and feet flat on the ground.
- Adjust the seat height so that the handles are at shoulder level when your arms are extended.
- Step 2Select Weight
- Choose an appropriate weight that allows you to perform the exercise with good form.
- Ensure the weight is securely loaded onto the machine.
- Step 3Position Your Arm
- Sit with one arm resting on the handle of the machine, keeping your elbow slightly bent.
- Ensure your shoulder is aligned with the pivot point of the machine.
- Step 4Engage Your Core
- Tighten your core muscles to stabilize your body during the movement.
- Keep your back straight and avoid leaning forward or backward.
- Step 5Perform the Fly
- Slowly pull the handle out to the side, keeping your elbow slightly bent and your wrist straight.
- Focus on squeezing your shoulder blades together as you lift your arm to shoulder height.
- Step 6Return to Start
- Control the movement as you return the handle back to the starting position.
- Maintain tension in your muscles and avoid letting the weight drop quickly.
- Step 7Repeat
- Complete the desired number of repetitions on one arm before switching to the other arm.
- Ensure that you maintain proper form throughout each repetition.
- Step 8Finish the Exercise
- After completing your sets, carefully lower the handle and sit back comfortably.
- Make sure to adjust the machine settings before leaving.
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