Butterfly
How to do the Butterfly
- 1
Sit on the machine with your back flat on the pad.
- 2
Take hold of the handles. Tip: Your upper arms should be positioned parallel to the floor; adjust the machine accordingly. This will be your starting position.
- 3
Push the handles together slowly as you squeeze your chest in the middle. Breathe out during this part of the motion and hold the contraction for a second.
- 4
Return back to the starting position slowly as you inhale until your chest muscles are fully stretched.
- 5
Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.
How to program the Butterfly
Sets and reps
As an isolation movement, the Butterfly is best trained with moderate loads and higher reps: 2–4 sets of 10–15 reps with 60–90 seconds of rest. Chasing heavy weight on isolation work usually degrades form before it builds muscle — prioritize a full range of motion and a controlled negative. Program it after your compound lifts.
Progression
The Butterfly is beginner-friendly. Start with a load (or rep count) you can complete with clean form on every set, then add a small amount of weight or 1–2 reps each week. When you hit the top of your rep range on all sets, increase the load and drop back to the bottom of the range — simple double progression.
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Frequently asked questions
What muscles does the Butterfly work?
The Butterfly primarily targets the Chest.
What equipment do I need for the Butterfly?
You need Machine. Difficulty level: Beginner.
How many sets and reps of the Butterfly should I do?
Do 2–4 sets of 10–15 reps with 60–90 seconds rest, focusing on a full range of motion and controlled tempo rather than maximum load.
