Back · Bodyweight

Prone Y's

Arms in a Y to light up the lower traps and shoulders.

Prone Y's exercise demonstration
BackSecondary: ShouldersBodyweight

How to do it

  1. Lie face down with your arms extended overhead in a Y, thumbs up.
  2. Brace your core and keep your forehead near the floor.
  3. Lift both arms up off the floor as high as you can.
  4. Squeeze your shoulder blades down and back, then lower with control.

The one cue that matters

Keep the arms at 45 degrees forming the Y, lift from the shoulder blades not the neck.

Muscles worked

The Prone Y's is a Back-first movement, with Shoulders working as the supporting cast. Track it consistently and you'll see exactly how it feeds your back volume for the week.

FAQ

What muscles does the Prone Y's work?

The Prone Y's primarily works the Back with Shoulders assisting.

What if I can't do many reps yet?

Shorten the range or use an easier variation, and stop 1 to 2 reps before failure. Reps build fast when you train just shy of your limit.

How many sets and reps of Prone Y's?

For most lifters 3 to 4 working sets. Pick the rep range that fits your goal and progress the load when the top of the range feels owned.

Related exercises

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