Cable Single-Arm Rope Tricep Pushdown

Beginner

A unilateral cable tricep isolation exercise using a rope attachment that targets all heads of the triceps to build arm strength and hypertrophy, helping correct imbalances with constant tension.

About Exercise

Equipment

Single Cable Machine, Rope Cable Attachment

Difficulty

2/5 • Beginner

Primary Muscle Groups

Triceps

Secondary Muscles

Forearms

Accessory Muscles

Abs

Popularity Score

7

Goals

Strength
Hypertrophy
Endurance

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

Lateral Head, Medial Head, Long Head

Forearms

4/10

Flexors

Abs

2/10

Rectus Abdominis

Programming

Typical Rep Range

8-15 reps

Rest Between Sets

60-90 seconds

How to Perform

Attach rope to high pulley on cable machine and select weight. Stand facing machine with feet shoulder-width, grasp rope end with one hand in neutral grip, elbow bent at 90 degrees tucked to side.

  1. Exhale and extend elbow to push rope down until arm is straight.
  2. Squeeze triceps at full extension without locking elbow.
  3. Inhale and slowly return to starting position, keeping upper arm stationary.
  4. Switch arms after completing reps on one side.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Keep elbow tucked to side
  • Upper arm stationary
  • Squeeze triceps hard
  • Control the return

Breathing

Inhale during the return phase; exhale as you extend the elbow.

Tempo

2-1-1

Range of Motion

Start with elbow bent at 90 degrees and upper arm perpendicular to floor; extend to full arm straighten without hyperextension.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Avoid heavy weights that compromise form
  • Stop if elbow pain occurs
  • Maintain neutral spine to protect back

Spotting

Spotting not required; use machine's weight stack for safety.

Common Mistakes

  • Flaring elbows outward
  • Using body momentum
  • Incomplete range of motion
  • Locking out elbows

When to Avoid

  • Acute elbow injuries
  • Shoulder impingement

Flexibility Needed

  • Basic shoulder flexion
  • Elbow extension mobility

Build Up First

  • Familiarity with cable machines
  • Proper elbow extension form

Also known as

Single-Arm Cable Rope Tricep Extension, One-Arm Rope Tricep Pushdown, Cable Unilateral Tricep Rope Pressdown

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