Electromyography of dumbbell fly exercise using different planes and labile surfaces

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to compare the electromyography of the shoulder muscles during the dumbbell fly on a stable horizontal surface, a stable incline surface, and an unstable surface. Seventeen males participated in three conditions. The first and second training sessions were held for exercise familiarization, to determine maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) normalization procedures, and to determine the load used on the third day in the electromyography exercise protocol. Results of the serratus anterior and the anterior deltoid muscles were higher in the incline condition versus the horizontal position. The activity of the pectoralis major (sternocostal head) was higher during the horizontal position versus the incline position. The unstable surface condition maintained similar muscle activity, but with a less total weight load. This finding suggests that the muscle groups analyzed in these exercises can be used either for rehabilitation or strength gain purposes.