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Dumbbell Seated Bent-Over Triceps Kickback

Beginner
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Seated dumbbell isolation exercise that targets the triceps through elbow extension to build arm strength and definition; commonly used in upper body routines for hypertrophy.

About Exercise

Equipment

Dumbbells, Flat Bench

Difficulty

2/5 • Beginner

Primary Muscle Groups

Triceps

Secondary Muscles

Shoulders

Popularity Score

7

Goals

Hypertrophy
Strength

Training Style

Bodybuilding

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

Yes

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Small

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Triceps

10/10

Long Head, Lateral Head, Medial Head

Shoulders

3/10

Rear Delts

Programming

Typical Rep Range

8-15 reps

Rest Between Sets

30-60 seconds

How to Perform

Sit on the end of a flat bench with feet flat on the floor. Hinge forward at hips until torso is nearly parallel to floor, back straight, core engaged. Hold dumbbells with elbows bent at 90 degrees, upper arms parallel to floor.

  1. Keep upper arms stationary and parallel to floor.
  2. Exhale and extend forearms backward by straightening elbows.
  3. Squeeze triceps at full extension.
  4. Inhale and slowly bend elbows to return dumbbells to starting position.
  5. Maintain control throughout the movement.
  6. Repeat for desired reps, switching arms if unilateral.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Upper arms stationary
  • Squeeze at top
  • Control the return
  • Back straight
  • Elbows tucked

Breathing

Inhale as you lower the dumbbells, exhale as you extend your arms and squeeze the triceps. Brace core throughout.

Tempo

2-1-2

Range of Motion

From elbows bent at 90 degrees with upper arms parallel to floor, extend to full elbow straightening without locking out, keeping upper arms fixed.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Avoid lower back strain by keeping back straight
  • Start with light weights to master form
  • Do not swing or use momentum
  • Consult professional if elbow or shoulder pain occurs

Spotting

Not typically required for this isolation exercise; use lighter weights or machine alternative if stability is an issue.

Common Mistakes

  • Swinging with momentum
  • Allowing elbows to drift forward
  • Rounding the back
  • Locking elbows at top
  • Using too heavy weight

When to Avoid

  • Acute elbow tendonitis
  • Shoulder impingement
  • Lower back injuries

Flexibility Needed

  • Adequate shoulder extension
  • Wrist flexibility for neutral grip

Build Up First

  • Basic understanding of elbow extension
  • Ability to maintain stable torso position

Also known as

Seated Dumbbell Tricep Kickback, Bent-Over Seated Triceps Extension, Dumbbell Seated Tricep Kickback

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