Cable Overhead Tricep Extension Straight Bar

Target your triceps with the Cable Overhead Tricep Extension. This isolation exercise effectively builds strength and definition in your upper arms using

Intermediate
Isolation
Push
30s per set1 min rest

Description

This exercise targets the triceps by extending the arms overhead while holding a straight bar attached to a cable pulley.

Save Cable Overhead Tricep Extension Straight Bar to a routine

Log sets, reps, and weight as you train — free in the Ellim app.

Get Ellim — Free

How to Do Cable Overhead Tricep Extension Straight Bar

  1. 1
    Setup

    Adjust the cable pulley to its lowest position and attach a straight bar. Stand facing away from the cable machine.

  2. 2
    Setup

    Grip the straight bar with an overhand grip, hands about shoulder-width apart. Step forward a few feet to create tension in the cable.

  3. 3
    Setup

    Bring the bar overhead with your arms fully extended, so your biceps are near your ears and elbows point forward. Maintain a slight bend in your elbows.

  4. 4

    Keeping your upper arms stationary and elbows tucked, slowly lower the bar behind your head by flexing only your elbows. Inhale as you lower the weight.

  5. 5

    Extend your forearms to push the bar back to the starting overhead position, squeezing your triceps at the top. Exhale as you extend.

  6. 6

    Control the movement throughout, ensuring your torso remains stable and you avoid any swinging or momentum from your shoulders.

Tips

  • Maintain a slight bend in your elbows at the top of the movement to keep continuous tension on the triceps and protect the joint.
  • Focus on keeping your elbows relatively fixed and pointing forward throughout the entire range of motion, preventing them from flaring out to the sides.
  • Engage your core to stabilize your torso and prevent your lower back from arching excessively as you extend the weight overhead.
  • Control the eccentric (lowering) phase for 2-3 seconds to maximize muscle time under tension and promote growth.

Common Mistakes

  • ×Flaring elbows out to the sides reduces triceps activation; keep your elbows tucked in and pointing forward.
  • ×Using too much momentum from the shoulders or back takes tension off the triceps; use a lighter weight and focus on strict elbow extension.
  • ×Not achieving full range of motion limits muscle development; ensure you fully extend your arms at the top and allow the bar to go behind your head at the bottom.

In the Ellim app, Cable Overhead Tricep Extension Straight Bar unlocks

Free — no subscription needed

  • Log sets, reps, and weight

    Track every set as you train

  • See your strength curve

    Performance graphs across all sessions

  • Add to a routine

    Save into a custom workout in one tap

  • Rest timer with Live Activity

    Dynamic Island countdown between sets

  • HealthKit sync

    Workouts flow to Apple Health

  • 3,500+ exercise library

    Search, filter, and pick variations offline

Ready to train cable overhead tricep extension straight bar?

Get Ellim — Free

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Cable Overhead Tricep Extension Straight Bar good for beginners?
Cable Overhead Tricep Extension Straight Bar is rated intermediate. Beginners can still attempt it with lighter weight and careful form, but it's best to master easier variations first.
What equipment do I need for Cable Overhead Tricep Extension Straight Bar?
You need Cable to perform Cable Overhead Tricep Extension Straight Bar. If you don't have this equipment, look for variations that target the same muscles with what you have available.
What are the best tips for Cable Overhead Tricep Extension Straight Bar?
Maintain a slight bend in your elbows at the top of the movement to keep continuous tension on the triceps and protect the joint. Focus on keeping your elbows relatively fixed and pointing forward throughout the entire range of motion, preventing them from flaring out to the sides. Engage your core to stabilize your torso and prevent your lower back from arching excessively as you extend the weight overhead. Control the eccentric (lowering) phase for 2-3 seconds to maximize muscle time under tension and promote growth.
What are common mistakes when doing Cable Overhead Tricep Extension Straight Bar?
Flaring elbows out to the sides reduces triceps activation; keep your elbows tucked in and pointing forward. Using too much momentum from the shoulders or back takes tension off the triceps; use a lighter weight and focus on strict elbow extension. Not achieving full range of motion limits muscle development; ensure you fully extend your arms at the top and allow the bar to go behind your head at the bottom.

Track every rep of Cable Overhead Tricep Extension Straight Bar.

Watch your weight climb session by session. See your strength curve. Add it to a routine you'll actually run.

Get Ellim — Free

Ready to train?

Cable Overhead Tricep Extension Straight Bar

Get Ellim — Free