How to do the Olympic Barbell Triceps Extension
Olympic Barbell Triceps Extension is an intermediate single-joint isolation pushing exercise targeting the Triceps in the Upper Arms region. Performed using olympic barbell, it falls under the strength category. Secondary muscles engaged include Shoulders.
Olympic Barbell Triceps Extension demonstration · © GymiaFit
Olympic Barbell Triceps Extension at a glance
- Primary muscles
- Triceps
- Secondary muscles
- Shoulders
- Equipment
- Olympic Barbell
- Level
- Intermediate
- Type
- Isolation (single-joint)
- Force
- Push
Olympic Barbell Triceps Extension step by step
- 1Start by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart and holding the barbell with an overhand grip.
- 2Raise the barbell above your head, fully extending your arms.
- 3Keeping your upper arms close to your head, slowly lower the barbell behind your head by bending your elbows.
- 4Pause for a moment, then extend your arms back to the starting position.
- 5Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.
Olympic Barbell Triceps Extension — questions
What muscles does the Olympic Barbell Triceps Extension work?
The Olympic Barbell Triceps Extension primarily targets the Triceps. It also recruits the Shoulders as secondary movers.
What equipment do I need for the Olympic Barbell Triceps Extension?
You need olympic barbell. If your gym does not have it, the alternatives listed further down train the same muscles with different kit.
Is the Olympic Barbell Triceps Extension suitable for beginners?
It is classed as intermediate. Build the movement pattern with an easier variation first, then add load once the technique holds under fatigue.
What can I do instead of the Olympic Barbell Triceps Extension?
Barbell Decline Close Grip To Skull Press, Barbell Incline Reverse-grip Press, Barbell Pin Presses train the same muscles and make good substitutes when the equipment is taken or the movement does not suit you.
Log it, don't guess it.
The GymiaFit app has the Olympic Barbell Triceps Extension demo, form cues and set logging built in — plus a muscle map that shows what you have actually trained this week. Free on iOS and Android.