Dumbbell Incline Single Arm Y-Raise - How to Perform, Muscles, Variants | SatisFIT Skip to main content

Dumbbell Incline Single Arm Y-Raise

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Dumbbell Incline Single Arm Y-Raise.

MediumRear shoulders

About this exercise

The Dumbbell Incline Single Arm Y-Raise is a prone isolation exercise performed on an incline bench that targets the posterior deltoid and lower trapezius. Raising one dumbbell diagonally up and out in a Y-shape mimics scapular upward rotation and reinforces healthy shoulder mechanics.

How to Perform

  • Set an adjustable bench to a low incline (roughly 30–45 degrees) and lie face down with your chest supported
  • Hold a light dumbbell in one hand with your arm hanging straight down, palm facing inward
  • Keep your working shoulder blade depressed and slightly retracted before initiating the lift
  • Raise the dumbbell diagonally forward and out to approximately a 45-degree angle from your body, forming a Y shape
  • Lift until your arm is roughly in line with your torso or slightly above, without shrugging your shoulder
  • Slowly lower the dumbbell back to the hanging position with control
  • Complete all reps on one side before switching to the other arm

Muscle Activation

Primary
Rear shoulders
Secondary
Side shouldersTrapezius

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes content is coming soon.

About the Dumbbell Incline Single Arm Y-Raise

The Dumbbell Incline Single Arm Y-Raise 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.