Appears in642 Workouts*

Barbell Lying Tricep Extension

Build bigger triceps! The Barbell Lying Tricep Extension isolates and strengthens, leading to serious arm gains.

The Barbell Lying Tricep Extension is a compound exercise that mainly works the triceps, with help from the shoulders and chest. You'll need: exercise bench or barbell or weight plates.

Barbell Lying Tricep Extension demo video 2
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Required Equipment

Barbell
Barbell
Exercise Bench
Exercise Bench
Weight Plates
Weight Plates

Barbell Lying Tricep Extension Muscles Worked

Primary

Triceps (triceps brachii)

Secondary

Front Shoulder (anterior deltoid); Chest (pectoralis major, sternal head)

How to do the Barbell Lying Tricep Extension

  1. To start, select an appropriate weight and place it on the barbell.

  2. Lie flat on your back on a flat bench with your feet planted on the floor for stability.

  3. Grasp the barbell with a narrow, overhand grip. Your hands should be about shoulder-width apart.

  4. Press the barbell up to a straight arm position directly above your chest. This is your starting position.

  5. Keeping your elbows fixed and pointing towards the ceiling, slowly lower the barbell towards your forehead by bending at the elbows.

  6. Lower the barbell until your forearms and biceps are almost in contact, ensuring that you maintain control of the weight throughout the movement.

  7. Pause briefly at the bottom of the movement.

  8. Extend your elbows to raise the barbell back to the starting point, focusing on using your triceps to perform the movement.

  9. Repeat the exercise for the recommended number of repetitions and sets.

Tips: Keep your elbows tucked in and avoid letting them flare out to fully engage the triceps. Use a spotter when lifting heavy weights to ensure safety. Start with a lighter weight to master the technique before progressing to heavier weights. Avoid locking your elbows out completely at the top to maintain tension on the triceps. If you experience any pain, especially in the elbow or shoulder, stop the exercise and consult a professional.

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Barbell Lying Tricep Extension FAQs

What muscles does the Barbell Lying Tricep Extension work?

The Barbell Lying Tricep Extension mainly works the triceps, with help from the shoulders and chest. The main muscles are the triceps brachii.

What equipment do you need for the Barbell Lying Tricep Extension?

Exercise bench or barbell or weight plates.

Is the Barbell Lying Tricep Extension a compound exercise?

Yes. It's a compound movement, meaning it trains several muscle groups at once rather than isolating one.

What workout day should the Barbell Lying Tricep Extension go on?

It belongs on push day in a push/pull/legs routine.

What are some Barbell Lying Tricep Extension variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the Barbell Incline Triceps Extension Skull-Crusher, Barbell JM Bench Press, Barbell Lying Close-Grip Press and Barbell Lying Extension.

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