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Last updated February 2, 2026
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bicepsforearmstriceps
Triceps Extension (Machine)
Sit in the machine and grab the handles. Press them forward or down until your arms are straight. Focus on locking out firmly to contract the triceps.
Quick facts
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Mechanic
- Isolation
- Force
- Push
- Type
- Strength
- Injury Risk
- Low
- Hypertrophy
- High
- Calorie Burn
- Low
Muscle focus
Primary and secondary muscle groups targeted by this movement.
Primary
triceps
Secondary
triceps (long)
Equipment & setup
What you need and how to position yourself before starting.
Equipment
weight machines / selectorized
Movement pattern
Bilateral
Posture
Seated
Tracking parameters
repsweight
Step-by-step instructions
Follow these cues to master proper technique and stay safe through every rep.
- Step 1Setup
- Adjust the seat height of the triceps extension machine so that the handles are at or just above your head when seated.
- Sit down on the machine with your back against the pad and feet flat on the floor.
- Step 2Position Your Arms
- Grasp the handles or the bar with an overhand grip, ensuring your hands are shoulder-width apart.
- Position your elbows close to your head and keep them stationary throughout the movement.
- Step 3Engage Your Core
- Tighten your core muscles to stabilize your body during the exercise.
- Ensure your back remains pressed against the pad to maintain proper posture.
- Step 4Extend Your Arms
- Push the handles down by extending your elbows, fully extending your arms without locking your elbows at the bottom.
- Focus on squeezing your triceps at the bottom of the movement.
- Step 5Return to Start Position
- Slowly raise the handles back to the starting position by bending your elbows.
- Maintain control throughout the movement, avoiding any jerking motions.
- Step 6Repeat
- Perform the desired number of repetitions, ensuring to maintain proper form with each rep.
- Step 7Finish the Exercise
- After completing your reps, carefully release the handles and sit upright.
- Ensure you safely exit the machine and adjust any settings if needed for the next user.