Seated Cable Chest Fly

Also known as: Cable Seated Chest Fly, Seated Chest Flys (Cable)

Sit and perform a seated cable fly by bringing the handles together in front of your chest, using horizontal adduction to work the pectoral muscles.

How to do the Seated Cable Chest Fly#

  1. Set the pulleys and seat so the handles sit at mid-chest height and choose an appropriate load.
  2. Sit with your back against the pad, feet planted, and grasp the handles with a slight bend in your elbows.
  3. Start with your arms open to the sides at chest level while maintaining a stable torso.
  4. Exhale and bring the handles together in a controlled arc, squeezing your chest at the end of the motion.
  5. Inhale and slowly return the handles to the starting position, keeping tension on the chest throughout.

Muscles worked#

Common mistakes#

Track the Seated Cable Chest Fly in Gript: your previous sets in view while you train, records detected automatically, and an estimated 1RM chart from every hard set.

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Frequently asked questions#

What muscles does the Seated Cable Chest Fly work?

The Seated Cable Chest Fly primarily works the chest. The front delts assist as secondary muscles — they stabilise the movement and take over when the main target fatigues. If you feel it mostly in the front delts, lighten the load and slow the lowering phase.

What equipment do I need for the Seated Cable Chest Fly?

The Seated Cable Chest Fly needs the following: Cable, Bench. Nothing beyond that is required to run the movement as described above.

Is the Seated Cable Chest Fly suitable for beginners?

Yes. The Seated Cable Chest Fly is rated beginner: the technique is quick to pick up and forgiving when a rep goes slightly off. Start light and add weight once the form repeats itself without you thinking about it.

What are good alternatives to the Seated Cable Chest Fly?

Around the World, Barbell Bench Press, Cable Bench Press all train the same primary muscles as the Seated Cable Chest Fly. Pick whichever one matches the equipment in front of you.