Overhead Tricep Extension (Dumbbell)

Primary muscle group
Triceps
Equipment
Dumbbells
Movement type
Isolation
Where
Home or gym

How to do Overhead Tricep Extension (Dumbbell)

Setup

Stand or sit with your core tight and hold one dumbbell with both hands wrapped around the handle, palms facing up against the inside plate. Press the dumbbell overhead so your arms are fully extended, elbows pointing forward.

How to do it

  1. Keep your elbows close to your head and pointed forward throughout the entire movement.
  2. Lower the dumbbell behind your head by bending only at the elbows until you feel a stretch in your triceps.
  3. Press the weight back up by straightening your arms, squeezing your triceps hard at the top.
  4. Keep your upper arms completely still—only your forearms should move.

Watch out for

  • Letting the elbows flare out to the sides instead of keeping them tucked and forward.
  • Using momentum or arching the lower back to lift the weight instead of controlling it with the triceps.
  • Moving the upper arms back and forth instead of keeping them stationary.

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