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Shoulder Internal Rotation (Band) exercise demonstration
Exercise library

Shoulder Internal Rotation (Band)

The mirrored inward rotation movement, balancing strength around the shoulder joint.

Area
Shoulder
Stage
Strength phase
Equipment
A resistance band, A rolled hand towel

Typical dose: 3 sets × 12 reps · once a day, 4 days a week · 2 seconds in, 3 seconds back. This is a general starting point, not a plan matched to your condition or stage.

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How to do it

You need: A resistance band, A rolled hand towel.

Anchor a resistance band at about elbow height. Stand side-on so the anchor is on the same side as the arm you are working. Hold the band in that hand, tuck your elbow into your side bent to 90 degrees, with a rolled towel between your elbow and your ribs.

  1. Start with your forearm turned slightly outwards and the band under light tension.
  2. Keeping your elbow tucked in, rotate your forearm inwards across your tummy.
  3. Return slowly to the start, controlling the band all the way back.

Form cues

  • The towel stays tucked against your side throughout.
  • The movement comes from the shoulder rotating, not from leaning your body.
  • Slow and controlled in both directions.

Common mistakes

  • Letting the elbow lift away from the ribs.
  • Rotating the trunk instead of the shoulder.
  • Snapping back to the start rather than controlling the return.

Safety: Stop and message your physio if the movement becomes sharply painful or the shoulder feels unstable.

Part of these recovery programmes

This exercise is one step in a staged plan for the conditions below. Each link opens the full programme and shows where this exercise fits.

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