Kettlebell Incline Y Raise - How to Perform, Muscles, Variants | SatisFIT Skip to main content

Kettlebell Incline Y Raise

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Kettlebell Incline Y Raise.

MediumRear shoulders

About this exercise

The kettlebell incline Y raise is performed lying prone on an incline bench, raising both arms at a 45-degree angle above shoulder level to form a Y shape. This movement targets the rear deltoids and lower trapezius, strengthening the muscles responsible for scapular upward rotation and shoulder health.

How to Perform

  • Set an adjustable bench to roughly 30–45 degrees and lie face down with your chest on the pad
  • Hold a kettlebell in each hand with a neutral grip, arms hanging straight down
  • Raise both arms forward and outward at a 45-degree angle until they form a Y shape overhead, keeping your thumbs pointing up
  • Squeeze the rear delts and lower traps at the top of the movement
  • Lower the kettlebells slowly back to the starting position
  • Repeat for the desired number of repetitions

Muscle Activation

Primary
Rear shoulders
Secondary
TrapeziusMiddle back

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes content is coming soon.

About the Kettlebell Incline Y Raise

The Kettlebell Incline 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.