The Best Triceps Exercises

Top Exercises

Cable Alternate Triceps Extension

Beginner / Cable Crossover Machine / Triceps / isolation

A cable-based extension that provides constant tension on the triceps. Alternating the movement helps in isolating the lateral and long heads effectively.

Lying Triceps Extension

Beginner / Dumbbells / Triceps / isolation

Also known as "skull crushers," this is a staple for building the triceps. Using dumbbells allows for a natural range of motion and saves the wrists.

Incline Triceps Extension

Beginner / Dumbbells / Triceps / isolation

A triceps isolation movement focusing on the long head. The incline position places the triceps under a unique stretch for maximum muscle growth.

Dumbbells Seated Triceps Extension

Beginner / Dumbbells / Triceps / isolation

A seated isolation exercise focusing on the long head of the triceps. The seated position prevents cheating and ensures maximal tension on the arms.

Cable One Arm Triceps Pushdown

Beginner / Hi-Lo Cable Machine / Triceps / push

A unilateral isolation exercise for the triceps. It allows for a greater focus on muscle contraction and helps correct strength imbalances between arms.

Cable Kneeling Triceps Extension

Beginner / Seated Cable Row Machine / Triceps / isolation

An isolation exercise for the triceps. The kneeling position stabilizes the torso, forcing the triceps to handle the load without assistance from the body.

Dumbbell Standing Kickback

Beginner / Dumbbells / Triceps / isolation

A triceps isolation movement that emphasizes the lockout. The standing position challenges the core and lower back to maintain a flat hinge.

Dumbbell Seated Triceps Extension

Beginner / Dumbbells / Triceps / isolation

An overhead triceps builder that isolates the lateral and long heads. The seated position helps maintain a neutral spine during the lift.

Dumbbell Seated Kickback

Beginner / Dumbbells / Triceps / isolation

A triceps isolation movement. The seated position stabilizes the body, allowing for a strict extension and powerful contraction at the lockout.

Dumbbell Seated Bench Extension

Beginner / Dumbbells / Triceps / isolation

An overhead triceps movement focusing on the long head. The seated position ensures better spinal alignment and direct isolation of the arm muscles.

Dumbbell Pronated Grip Triceps Extension

Beginner / Dumbbells / Triceps / isolation

A triceps isolation variation using an overhand grip. This shifts the emphasis to the lateral head, helping to build arm width and overall definition.