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Resistance Band Single-Arm Overhead Tricep Extension

Beginner
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A single-arm isolation exercise using a resistance band that targets the triceps to build arm strength and definition; performed overhead for emphasis on the long head.

About Exercise

Equipment

Bands

Difficulty

2/5 • Beginner

Primary Muscle Groups

Triceps

Secondary Muscles

Shoulders, Abs, Lower Back

Popularity Score

7

Goals

Strength
Hypertrophy

Training Style

Bodybuilding
Functional Training

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

3/10

Rectus Abdominis

Lower Back

3/10

Erector Spinae

Programming

Typical Rep Range

8-15 reps

Rest Between Sets

60-90 seconds

How to Perform

Anchor the resistance band under the foot on the working side. Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, grip the band with one hand using an underhand grip, and raise your arm overhead with elbow bent and close to your head.

  1. Exhale and extend your elbow to straighten your arm overhead, keeping your upper arm stationary.
  2. Squeeze your triceps at full extension.
  3. Inhale and slowly bend your elbow to lower the band behind your head.
  4. Maintain core engagement and neutral spine throughout.
  5. Switch arms after completing reps on one side.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Elbow tight to head
  • Upper arm stationary
  • Core braced
  • Controlled lowering
  • Squeeze at top

Breathing

Exhale during the extension phase and inhale during the lowering phase while bracing your core.

Tempo

2-1-1

Range of Motion

Extend elbow from 90-degree bend to near full straight arm without locking out, keeping upper arm vertical.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Avoid if acute elbow or shoulder pain
  • Ensure band allows full control
  • Do not lock elbows
  • Maintain straight back

Spotting

Spotting not required; use lighter band if stability is an issue.

Common Mistakes

  • Flaring elbows outward
  • Using momentum or jerking
  • Arching lower back
  • Locking elbows at top
  • Incomplete range of motion

When to Avoid

  • Acute elbow joint pain
  • Acute shoulder joint pain
  • Severe overhead shoulder mobility limitations

Flexibility Needed

  • Adequate shoulder flexion for vertical arm position

Build Up First

  • Basic elbow extension form competency

Also known as

Single-Arm Band Overhead Tricep Extension, Banded Single-Arm Overhead Triceps Pressdown, One-Arm Resistance Band Tricep Extension

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