How to do a Prone I’s
Reviewed by JP Michelsen, CPT, B.A. Kinesiology
About Prone I’s
Instructions for Proper Form
Prone I's are an isolation exercise that primarily targets the muscles of the upper back, specifically the lower trapezius. This exercise involves lying face down and lifting the arms straight overhead to form an 'I' shape. It's highly effective for improving posture, scapular control, and stability of the shoulder girdle. Ideal for those looking to strengthen the back muscles and improve shoulder health.
- Lie face down on the ground or on a mat.
- Extend your arms straight out over your head and put your palms to the ground—you should look like an "I."
- Engage your back muscles to raise your arms off the ground.
- Keep your core engaged and your arms straight.
- Hold this position for a moment.
- Return your arms and palms to the ground.
- Repeat.
Alternative Exercises to Prone I’s
1. Dumbbell Bent Over Reverse Fly
81.9 mSCORESWAPPED 617 TIMESDumbbell Bent Over Reverse Fly is an isolation exercise that primarily targets the posterior deltoids (back of the shoulder). The use of dumbbells helps prevent compensating for strength discrepancies between sides. Leaning forward during the exercise allows for better isolation of the targeted shoulder muscles while also recruiting some muscle activation in the upper back.
2. Dumbbell Bent Over Row
94.4 mSCORESWAPPED 504 TIMESDumbbell Bent Over Row is a compound exercise that primarily targets the back, but also hits biceps. The use of dumbbells helps prevent compensating for any discrepancies in strength between sides, as well as adds more instability to the movement compared to equipment like barbells. This can be a great addition to any back workout for building muscle mass and strength.
3. Dumbbell Row
99.9 mSCORESWAPPED 406 TIMESThis compound movement primarily targets the back, but also hits the shoulders and biceps, as well as requiring some core activation for stability. By bracing yourself on the flat bench, you can position your torso parallel to the ground, without needing specific equipment. This is a great exercise with or without limited equipment, and a staple in many back workouts.
4. Prone W’s
1.3 mSCORESWAPPED 320 TIMESProne W's are an isolation exercise that primarily targets the upper back and shoulders, specifically the rear deltoids and rhomboids. By lying prone and lifting your arms into a 'W' shape, you isolate the upper back muscles. This is a great exercise for improving posture, shoulder stability, and increasing muscle strength in the upper back.
- Beginner
- Back
5. Lat Pulldown
100 mSCORESWAPPED 202 TIMESThis compound exercise primarily targets the back, but also hits the shoulders and biceps. The movement itself is based on a Pull Up, however, by locking your legs into place, you can add significantly more stability to the movement making it easier to complete a rep, as well as getting control over the resistance. This exercise can be easily adapted to meet your needs with different handles.
- Beginner
- Back
- Lat Pulldown
6. Cable Row
99.8 mSCORESWAPPED 164 TIMESCable Row is a compound movement that primarily targets your back, but also hits your shoulders and biceps. This exercise is often done with a specific cable machine that sets you into the perfect position, but you can also use an adjustable cable to have more control over the direction your resistance is coming from. This is a great exercise for building muscle mass and strength in your back, and is a common addition to most upper body or pull workouts.
7. Prone T’s
28.3 mSCORESWAPPED 154 TIMESProne T’s are an isolation exercise that primarily targets the muscles between your shoulder blades and the posterior deltoids (back of the shoulder). This exercise involves lying face down and lifting your arms out to the side, forming a 'T' shape. The prone position helps isolate the targeted muscles and can improve shoulder stability and posture. This exercise is beneficial for those looking to strengthen the upper back and improve shoulder health.
- Beginner
- Back
8. Alternating Superman
92.2 mSCORESWAPPED 126 TIMESThis exercise is a variation of the classic Superman, targeting the lower back, glutes, and core by alternately lifting opposite arms and legs. It enhances balance, coordination, and spinal stability more effectively than the traditional version by engaging stabilizing muscles to maintain form and control during the alternation. This isolation move is ideal for improving posture and functional strength.
- Beginner
- Lower Back
9. Incline Dumbbell Row
90.5 mSCORESWAPPED 119 TIMESThis is a compound exercise that primarily targets your back. It’s a variation on the more standard Bent Over Row, that uses an incline bench to stabilize your upper body. This added stability ensures that you can't assist yourself by recruiting other muscle groups. The added stability also allows you to focus on moving the weight rather than stabilizing your upper body in the right position.
10. Bird Dog Rows
69.2 mSCORESWAPPED 99 TIMESBird Dog Rows are a compound movement that primarily targets the back, core, and glutes. This exercise combines a row with a Bird Dog position, adding significant instability that requires strong core activation. It's particularly useful for improving balance, overall stability, and addressing strength imbalances between sides. This is an effective addition for those looking to enhance functional strength and coordination.