Standing Dumbbell Triceps Extension
Standing Dumbbell Triceps Extension is a beginner-level isolation in the strength category that primarily works the triceps. It is performed with dumbbells.
How to do it
- 1To begin, stand up with a dumbbell held by both hands. Your feet should be about shoulder width apart from each other. Slowly use both hands to grab the dumbbell and lift it over your head until both arms are fully extended.
- 2The resistance should be resting in the palms of your hands with your thumbs around it. The palm of the hands should be facing up towards the ceiling. This will be your starting position.
- 3Keeping your upper arms close to your head with elbows in and perpendicular to the floor, lower the resistance in a semicircular motion behind your head until your forearms touch your biceps. Tip: The upper arms should remain stationary and only the forearms should move. Breathe in as you perform this step.
- 4Go back to the starting position by using the triceps to raise the dumbbell. Breathe out as you perform this step.
- 5Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.
Muscles worked
Primary muscles in filled badges, secondary in grey. Tap for more exercises per muscle.
Tips and common mistakes
- •Focus on the muscle contraction and control the eccentric (lowering) phase.
- •Add load only once you complete all reps with good form — progressive overload.
- •Press through the full range and avoid snapping the joints into lockout.
- •Prioritize full range of motion over heavy weight with partial reps.
Sets and reps
For hypertrophy: 3–4 sets × 8–12 reps with 1–2 reps in reserve (RPE 7–9) and 1–2 minutes rest. For strength: 3–5 × 4–6 with longer rest.