Suspension Scapular Retraction - How to Perform, Muscles, Variants | SatisFIT Skip to main content

Suspension Scapular Retraction

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Suspension Scapular Retraction.

MediumTrapeziusMiddle back

About this exercise

A suspension trainer exercise focused on squeezing the shoulder blades together (scapular retraction) while holding the handles of gymnastic rings or a suspension system. It directly targets the mid-back and upper traps, building postural strength and scapular control essential for all pulling movements.

How to Perform

  • Hold the suspension handles with palms facing each other and lean back at an angle, arms fully extended
  • Keep your body in a straight line from head to heels
  • Without bending your elbows, retract your shoulder blades by squeezing them together
  • Hold the retracted position briefly at the top
  • Slowly allow the shoulder blades to protract back to the starting position
  • Breathe out as you retract and in as you return; keep your core tight throughout

Muscle Activation

Primary
TrapeziusMiddle back
Secondary
Rear shouldersLower back

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes content is coming soon.

About the Suspension Scapular Retraction

The Suspension Scapular Retraction is a foundational movement that builds strength and muscle through controlled, progressive overload. Train it 1 to 2 times per week with 3 to 5 working sets per session, gradually adding weight or reps as form holds up.