How to do the Overhead Triceps Stretch
Overhead Triceps Stretch is a beginner single-joint isolation pushing exercise targeting the Triceps in the Upper Arms region. Performed using bodyweight, it falls under the flexibility category. Secondary muscles engaged include Shoulders.
Overhead Triceps Stretch demonstration · © GymiaFit
Overhead Triceps Stretch at a glance
- Primary muscles
- Triceps
- Secondary muscles
- Shoulders
- Equipment
- Body Weight
- Level
- Beginner
- Type
- Isolation (single-joint)
- Force
- Push
Overhead Triceps Stretch step by step
- 1Stand or sit upright with your feet shoulder-width apart.
- 2Extend one arm overhead, bending at the elbow so that your hand reaches towards the opposite shoulder blade.
- 3With your other hand, gently pull the elbow of the extended arm towards the opposite side of your head, feeling a stretch in your triceps.
- 4Hold the stretch for 15-30 seconds, then release.
- 5Repeat on the other side.
Overhead Triceps Stretch — questions
What muscles does the Overhead Triceps Stretch work?
The Overhead Triceps Stretch primarily targets the Triceps. It also recruits the Shoulders as secondary movers.
What equipment do I need for the Overhead Triceps Stretch?
None — the Overhead Triceps Stretch uses your bodyweight only, so it works at home with nothing but floor space.
Is the Overhead Triceps Stretch suitable for beginners?
Yes. It is classed as a beginner movement: the pattern is simple enough to learn in a session and easy to scale by adjusting range of motion or load.
What can I do instead of the Overhead Triceps Stretch?
Body-up, Bodyweight Kneeling Triceps Extension, Stalder Press 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 Overhead Triceps Stretch 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.