Cable Internal Rotation

Also known as: Cable Shoulder Internal Rotation, Shoulder Internal Rotation (Cable)

Rotate the arm inward against cable resistance to strengthen the shoulder's internal rotator muscles. The movement is performed with the elbow fixed at the side and the forearm moving across the torso.

How to do the Cable Internal Rotation#

  1. Set the cable pulley to about elbow height and stand with the working side facing the machine; grasp the handle with a secure grip.
  2. Bend your elbow to roughly 90° and keep your upper arm pressed against your ribcage so the forearm starts across your torso.
  3. Rotate the shoulder to pull the handle inward toward your abdomen while keeping the elbow stationary.
  4. Pause briefly at the end range of motion, then slowly control the handle back to the starting position.
  5. Maintain a stable torso and neutral scapula; avoid letting the shoulder shrug or the elbow move away from your side.

Muscles worked#

Common mistakes#

Track the Cable Internal Rotation 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 Cable Internal Rotation work?

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

What equipment do I need for the Cable Internal Rotation?

The Cable Internal Rotation needs the following: Cable. Nothing beyond that is required to run the movement as described above.

Is the Cable Internal Rotation suitable for beginners?

Yes. The Cable Internal Rotation 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 Cable Internal Rotation?

Cable Front Raise, Cable Overhead Press, Arnold Press all train the same primary muscles as the Cable Internal Rotation. Pick whichever one matches the equipment in front of you.