Cable Lying Fly - How to Perform, Muscles, Variants | SatisFIT Skip to main content

Cable Lying Fly

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Cable Lying Fly.

MediumUpper chestMiddle chest

About this exercise

A chest fly performed lying flat on a bench positioned between two low cable pulleys. Cables maintain constant tension throughout the full range of motion, providing a superior stretch and peak contraction compared to dumbbells, making this an excellent movement for mid-chest hypertrophy.

How to Perform

  • Set both cable pulleys to the lowest position and place a flat bench between them
  • Lie flat on the bench, grip one handle in each hand, and press the cables together above your chest
  • With a slight, fixed bend in both elbows, slowly open your arms wide in a controlled arc until you feel a deep stretch across your chest
  • Squeeze your pecs to bring the cables back together above your sternum
  • Hold the contraction briefly at the top before lowering again
  • Keep your shoulder blades pinched and your back flat throughout the set

Muscle Activation

Primary
Upper chestMiddle chest
Secondary
BicepsFront shoulders

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes content is coming soon.

About the Cable Lying Fly

The Cable Lying 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.