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Overhead Triceps Extension

Exercise Profile

Body PartTriceps, Upper Arms
EquipmentCable
Primary MusclesTriceps Brachii
Secondary Muscles
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Introduction to the Overhead Triceps Extension

The Overhead Triceps Extension is a strength training exercise that primarily targets the triceps, aiding in the development of upper body strength and muscle definition. It is suitable for individuals at any fitness level, from beginners to advanced athletes, as it can be easily modified to match one's capabilities. People would want to perform this exercise to improve their arm strength, enhance their sports performance, or simply to tone and sculpt their arms.

Performing the: A Step-by-Step Tutorial Overhead Triceps Extension

  • Keep your upper arms stationary and close to your head, with elbows in and perpendicular to the floor.
  • Slowly lower the weight in a semicircular motion behind your head until your forearms touch your biceps. Ensure that only your forearms are moving and your upper arms are stationary.
  • Pause for a moment and then use your triceps to return the dumbbell back to the starting position.
  • Repeat the exercise for the recommended number of repetitions, ensuring to maintain good form throughout the exercise.

Tips for Performing Overhead Triceps Extension

  • **Avoid Using Too Much Weight**: A common mistake is using too much weight, which can lead to poor form and potential injury. Start with a lighter weight and gradually increase as your strength improves. It's better to perform the exercise correctly with a lighter weight than to struggle with a heavier one.
  • **Controlled Movements**: Avoid fast, jerky movements. Lower the weight in a slow and controlled manner, then push it back up to the starting position. This will ensure you're effectively working the triceps

Overhead Triceps Extension FAQs

Can beginners do the Overhead Triceps Extension?

Yes, beginners can do the Overhead Triceps Extension exercise. It's a great exercise to strengthen and tone the triceps. However, it's important to start with a light weight to ensure proper form and prevent injury. As you become more comfortable and stronger, you can gradually increase the weight. It's also beneficial to have someone, like a trainer, guide you initially to ensure you are doing the exercise correctly.

What are common variations of the Overhead Triceps Extension?

  • Another variation is the Seated Overhead Triceps Extension, which is done while sitting down, providing more stability and focusing on the triceps without much other body movement.
  • The Dumbbell Overhead Triceps Extension is a variation where you use a dumbbell instead of a barbell, offering a different type of resistance and grip.
  • The Two-handed Overhead Triceps Extension is a variation where you hold a single dumbbell with both hands, providing a balanced challenge to both arms.
  • Lastly, the Cable Overhead Triceps Extension is a variation where you use a cable machine, allowing for a consistent level of tension throughout the entire movement.

What are good complementing exercises for the Overhead Triceps Extension?

  • Skull crushers directly target the triceps and are performed in a similar way to Overhead Triceps Extensions, but with a different angle, thereby helping to further isolate and build the triceps muscles.
  • Dips, like Overhead Triceps Extensions, require the use of the triceps to lift the body's weight, and they also engage the shoulders and chest, providing a comprehensive upper body workout that complements the triceps focus of the Overhead Extension.

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  • Cable Overhead Triceps Extension
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  • Upper Arm Toning Cable Exercise
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  • Overhead Triceps Workout with Cable