Upright Row – With Bands

• Strengthens the shoulders and upper back
• Can be used to target specific muscle groups
• Improves posture and balance
• Increases muscular endurance
• Improves coordination and core stability
• Can be performed with various equipment

1. To start, position yourself on an exercise band so that there is tension when your arms are extended. Hold the handles with a grip where your palms are facing your thighs and the width between your hands is slightly less than the width of your shoulders. Let the handles rest on top of your thighs and keep your arms straight with a slight bend at the elbows. Make sure your back is straight. This is your starting position.
2. Exhale and use your side shoulders to lift the handles. Keep the handles close to your body as you raise them. Continue lifting until the handles are almost touching your chin. Remember to drive the motion with your elbows. Your elbows should always be higher than your forearms. Keep your torso still and pause for a moment at the top of the movement.
3. Inhale and slowly lower the handles back down to the starting position.
4. Repeat the exercise for the recommended number of repetitions.

Variations: You can perform this exercise using a straight or e-z bar. Another option is to use dumbbells, but this variation is more suitable for advanced individuals who are familiar with proper execution.

1. Stand on an exercise band so that tension begins at arm's length.
2. Grasp the handles using a pronated grip that is slightly less than shoulder width. The handles should be resting on top of your thighs.
3. Keep your arms extended with a slight bend at the elbows and your back straight.
4. Use your side shoulders to lift the handles as you exhale.
5. Keep the handles close to your body as you move them up.
6. Lift the handles until they nearly touch your chin.
7. Make sure your elbows are higher than your forearms throughout the motion.
8. Keep your torso stationary and pause for a second at the top of the movement.
9. Lower the handles back down slowly to the starting position as you inhale.
10. Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.

Variations: This exercise can also be performed using a straight or e-z bar. Another variation is to use dumbbells, though this later exercise should be reserved by the most advanced people that are well familiarized with correct execution.

1. Make sure to choose the appropriate resistance band for your strength level.
2. Before starting the exercise, ensure that the band is securely anchored and there is enough tension to provide resistance throughout the movement.
3. Maintain proper form throughout the exercise by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart and your back straight.
4. Keep your elbows higher than your forearms as you lift the handles, using your side shoulders to drive the motion.
5. Avoid using excessive momentum or swinging your body to lift the handles. This can lead to injury and reduce the effectiveness of the exercise.
6. Pause for a second at the top of the movement to fully engage the muscles in your shoulders and upper back.
7. Control the descent of the handles back to the starting position, avoiding any sudden or jerking movements.
8. Remember to breathe properly throughout the exercise, exhaling as you lift the handles and inhaling as you lower them.
9. If you experience any pain or discomfort during the exercise, stop immediately and consult a fitness professional or healthcare provider.
10. For variations of the exercise, such as using a straight or e-z bar, or dumbbells, ensure you are familiar with correct execution and have the necessary strength and stability to perform them safely.