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Bodyweight Standing Alternate Chest Fly

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Bodyweight Standing Alternate Chest Fly.

EasyMiddle chest

About this exercise

A standing bodyweight exercise that mimics the chest fly motion, performed one arm at a time in an alternating fashion. By sweeping each arm across the body against muscular tension, you activate the pectoral muscles without any equipment.

How to Perform

  • Stand upright with feet shoulder-width apart and arms extended to your sides at chest height, elbows slightly bent
  • Keeping the slight bend in your elbow, sweep your right arm across your body in an arc until it crosses the midline
  • Squeeze your chest at the end of the arc and hold briefly
  • Return your right arm to the starting position under control
  • Repeat the motion with your left arm
  • Continue alternating sides for the desired number of repetitions

Muscle Activation

Primary
Middle chest
Secondary
TricepsFront shoulders

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes content is coming soon.

About the Bodyweight Standing Alternate Chest Fly

The Bodyweight Standing Alternate Chest Fly 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.