All Exercises

Resistance Band Triceps Pushdown

Build strong, defined triceps with the resistance band triceps pushdown. Effectively target all three heads of your triceps brachii for upper arm strength.

Intermediate
Isolation
Push
45s per set30s rest

Description

A triceps-focused exercise using a resistance band. The user stands upright, holds the resistance band with both hands and pushes it downwards, fully extending the arms.

How to Do Resistance Band Triceps Pushdown

  1. 1
    Setup

    Secure a resistance band to a high anchor point, such as a sturdy pull-up bar or door anchor, ensuring it is stable. Stand facing the anchor point with your feet hip-width apart and a slight bend in your knees for stability.

  2. 2
    Setup

    Grasp the ends of the resistance band with an overhand grip, hands about shoulder-width apart, and pull the band down so your elbows are tucked close to your sides. Position your upper arms perpendicular to the floor and parallel to your torso, with your forearms parallel to the floor.

  3. 3

    Exhale as you powerfully extend your forearms downwards, pushing the band until your elbows are fully locked out and your triceps are maximally contracted. Keep your upper arms stationary throughout the movement, isolating the triceps.

  4. 4

    Inhale as you slowly and with control allow the band to pull your forearms back up to the starting position, resisting the tension. Maintain control during the eccentric phase to maximize muscle engagement.

Tips

  • Keep your elbows tucked close to your sides throughout the entire movement to maximize triceps isolation and prevent your shoulders from taking over.
  • Achieve full elbow extension at the bottom of each repetition to ensure a complete contraction of the triceps brachii.
  • Focus on a slow and controlled eccentric (raising) phase, resisting the band's pull to increase time under tension and promote muscle growth.
  • Engage your core and maintain a stable torso to prevent compensatory movements and ensure all force is directed through your triceps.

Common Mistakes

  • ×Many people allow their elbows to flare out during the pushdown, which reduces triceps isolation; instead, keep your elbows tucked tightly to your sides to maximize triceps engagement.
  • ×Swinging your torso or leaning into the movement takes tension off the triceps; instead, maintain a rigid torso and drive the movement solely from your elbows.
  • ×Failing to fully extend the elbows at the bottom of the movement reduces triceps activation; ensure you lock out your elbows momentarily for a complete contraction.

Variations

Related Exercises

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