Cable V-Bar Overhead Tricep Extension (Low Pulley)

Intermediate

Cable overhead extension using V-bar at low pulley targets triceps, emphasizing long head, to build arm strength and size; provides constant tension for hypertrophy.

About Exercise

Equipment

Single Cable Machine, V-Bar Cable Attachment

Difficulty

2/5 • Intermediate

Primary Muscle Groups

Triceps

Secondary Muscles

Shoulders

Accessory Muscles

Abs

Popularity Score

7

Goals

Strength
Hypertrophy

Training Style

Bodybuilding

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

No

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Small

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Triceps

10/10

Long Head, Lateral Head, Medial Head

Shoulders

4/10

Anterior Delts

Abs

2/10
Programming

Typical Rep Range

8-15 reps

Rest Between Sets

60-90 seconds

How to Perform

Attach V-bar to low pulley on cable machine. Stand facing away, grip V-bar behind head with elbows bent, feet shoulder-width, slight forward lean, core engaged.

  1. Extend arms overhead by straightening elbows, pushing V-bar up and slightly forward.
  2. Squeeze triceps at top without locking elbows.
  3. Lower V-bar slowly behind head by bending elbows, feeling stretch in triceps.
  4. Keep upper arms stationary and close to head.
  5. Repeat for reps, maintaining control.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Elbows tucked to ears
  • Upper arms fixed
  • Squeeze at top
  • Controlled descent
  • Core tight

Breathing

Inhale during eccentric lowering phase; exhale forcefully during concentric extension while bracing core.

Tempo

3-1-1

Range of Motion

Start with elbows bent at 90 degrees behind head; extend to full arm straight overhead without elbow lockout.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Avoid excessive weight to prevent compensation
  • Maintain neutral spine, no hyperextension
  • Keep elbows from flaring to protect shoulders
  • Use controlled reps, especially eccentric
  • Stop if elbow or shoulder pain occurs
  • Avoid full elbow lockout

Spotting

Not typically required for cable isolation; use machine safeties or lighter weight if needed for form.

Common Mistakes

  • Flaring elbows out
  • Using momentum
  • Arching lower back
  • Incomplete extension
  • Excessive weight causing form breakdown

When to Avoid

  • Acute elbow pain
  • Shoulder impingement
  • Lower back issues

Flexibility Needed

  • Shoulder flexion to 150 degrees
  • Wrist neutral grip comfort

Build Up First

  • Basic cable machine familiarity
  • Proper elbow extension form

Also known as

Low Pulley V-Bar Tricep Extension, Overhead Cable V-Bar Tricep Push, Standing Low Cable Tricep Extension

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