Which two exercises are specifically designed to strengthen the rotator cuff?

The two exercises specifically designed to strengthen the rotator cuff are internal and external rotation. The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint and is crucial for shoulder mobility and strength. Internal rotation involves the movement of the arm toward the body, focusing on the subscapularis muscle, while external rotation involves moving the arm away from the body, targeting the infraspinatus and teres minor muscles. Both exercises are fundamental for developing the strength and stability needed in the rotator cuff, which can help prevent injuries and improve overall shoulder function.

In contrast, the other options include exercises that do not specifically target the rotator cuff. Arm raises and shoulder shrugs involve broader shoulder movements that engage other muscle groups without isolating the rotator cuff muscles. Push-ups and tricep dips mainly work the chest and triceps, with less emphasis on the shoulder stabilization required from the rotator cuff. Similarly, bench press and pull-ups are compound exercises that work major muscle groups but do not focus on the specific rotator cuff muscles. Therefore, internal and external rotations are the key exercises for effectively strengthening the rotator cuff.