Seated Triceps Extension
Description
The seated tricep extension - as with most other machine exercises - is a great way to gain introductory experience to the new movement. The minimal need for stability allows the trainee to focus on feeling the contraction rather then trying to perform a complex motor movement.
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Execution
- Adjust the machine to the appropriate settings (seat height and resistance). Sit down and place the back of your arm against the padding provided.
- Grasp the handles using a neutral grip and ensure that the elbows are positioned shoulder width apart.
- Exhale and extend your arms while keeping your triceps in contact with the padding. Once your arms are straight, briefly hold the position and focus on the contraction.
- Inhale and at a controlled speed, allow your arm to bend back to starting position.
- Repeat until the desired number of repetitions are completed.
Variations
As your arm moves back into flexion (the eccentric portion of the movement) you’ll typically be able to handle more resistance as our muscles are stronger as they’re lengthening. Having your spotter apply additional resistance by pushing against the metal handle supports is a great way to increase the difficulty of the exercise.
Standing Tricep Extension (Rope)
Description
The standing tricep extension exercise is a convenient and effective way to target the triceps. It’s suitable for both beginners and advanced trainees alike as the different handle-attachments make the movement quite versatile. You can use this movement to start your workout, finish your workout - or both. When training your triceps, starting with the standing tricep extension exercise is a good idea because it’s so effective at warming up your elbow joint. Once your heavy exercises are completed, performing cable extensions as a finisher is a great way to isolate specific muscles within the triceps. The traditional method - which is described below - focuses on the medial and lateral heads of the triceps.
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Execution
- Stand in an upright position with knees slightly bent. Grasp the bar/rope using a closed grip and position your elbows directly underneath your shoulders. The starting position should have your arms tight to your sides at an angle slightly less than 90 degrees.
- Exhale and extend elbow until your arm is fairly straight. Briefly hold this position and focus on the contraction felt within the triceps.
- Inhale and in a controlled motion, allow your arms to slowly drift back into starting position.
- Repeat until the desired number of repetitions are completed.
Variations
Allowing your elbows to swing out from the sides of your body will allow you to lift more weight which will recruit the long head of the biceps for assistance.
Several handles are available, each recruit different muscles throughout the forearm. Using the rope allows you to twist your hands to a point where your knuckles are facing the ground. This finishing movement allows for a better contraction of the triceps.
Facing away from the cable column and reaching overhead to grab the rope is yet another variation. Details on how to perform the overhead rope extension can be made accessed by clicking the link.