Resistance Band Triceps Extension

Beginner
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A resistance band isolation exercise targeting the triceps through elbow extension to build arm strength and muscle definition; versatile for home use with adjustable tension.

About Exercise

Equipment

Bands

Difficulty

2/5 • Beginner

Primary Muscle Groups

Triceps

Secondary Muscles

Shoulders, Forearms

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

Forearms

3/10

Extensors

Programming

Typical Rep Range

10-15 reps

Rest Between Sets

60-90 seconds

How to Perform

Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, anchoring the band under both feet. Grip handles and raise arms overhead with elbows bent, hands behind head, maintaining upright posture.

  1. Exhale and extend arms straight overhead, squeezing triceps at top.
  2. Keep upper arms stationary and elbows pointed up.
  3. Inhale and slowly bend elbows to lower hands behind head.
  4. Control the return to maintain tension on band.
  5. Repeat for desired reps without locking elbows.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Elbows close to head
  • Upper arms still
  • Squeeze at top
  • Control the lower
  • Core tight

Breathing

Exhale during arm extension; inhale as you bend elbows to return.

Tempo

2-1-1

Range of Motion

Extend elbows fully overhead without locking; return until forearms touch biceps for full stretch.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Inspect band for damage before use
  • Avoid jerky movements
  • Stop if elbow or shoulder pain occurs
  • Do not overstetch band beyond 2.5 times length
  • Secure anchor if not under feet

Spotting

Spotting not required; use lighter band if unstable.

Common Mistakes

  • Flaring elbows outward
  • Using momentum
  • Arching lower back
  • Locking elbows
  • Incomplete stretch

When to Avoid

  • Shoulder instability
  • Acute elbow pain
  • Recent triceps strain

Flexibility Needed

  • Shoulder flexion to 150 degrees

Build Up First

  • Basic understanding of resistance band use
  • Proper elbow positioning

Also known as

Band Triceps Extension, Overhead Band Tricep Press, Banded Triceps Pushdown

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