FitCi
Overhead Dumbbell Triceps Extension is an isolation exercise for the triceps: one joint works, so it comes after the compound lifts to finish the target muscle. Equipment: dumbbell, kettlebell. Difficulty: beginner, suitable for beginners. It takes 5 steps; the most common mistake is covered in the tip below.
Step-by-step
- Hold a single dumbbell overhead with both hands.
- Keep your elbows fixed beside your ears and pointing up.
- Lower the dumbbell behind your head without moving your upper arms.
- Descend under control until your forearms are parallel to the floor.
- Press the dumbbell back overhead using your triceps.
Coaching tip
Keep your elbows tucked forward; lower the weight behind your neck under control.
Caution
Skip this move or ask a professional first if you have pain or an injury in: elbow, shoulder. FitCi filters it out of your program automatically based on the injuries in your profile.
How to program it
Sets × reps and rest by goal; tempo and controlled reps matter most on isolation work. Start at the bottom of the range in week one; add 2.5–5% when you hit the top with clean form.
| Goal | Sets × Reps | Rest |
|---|---|---|
| Strength | 3 × 6-8 | 120 s |
| Muscle gain | 3 × 10-15 | 75 s |
| Fat loss / conditioning | 3 × 12-15 | 60 s |
FitCi applies this table to your age and goal automatically and writes weekly progression.
Alternatives
- At home, no equipment: Bench Dips, Diamond Push-Up
- Same muscle, different equipment: Close-Grip Bench Press, Triceps Dips, Bench Dips
More triceps exercises
Add this exercise to your program
Build your own program in FitCi, pick an expert template, or photograph the plan your coach gave you; the app tracks sets, reps and weight.