Appears in642 Workouts*

Cable Hammer Pushdown Jack

Blast your triceps with the Cable Hammer Pushdown Jack! A unique, effective exercise for strength and definition.

The Cable Hammer Pushdown Jack mainly works the triceps and chest, with help from the core. You'll need: cable handle attachment or cable machine.

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Required Equipment

Cable Handle Attachment
Cable Handle Attachment
Cable Machine
Cable Machine

Cable Hammer Pushdown Jack Muscles Worked

Primary

Triceps (triceps brachii); Upper Chest (pectoralis major, clavicular head)

Secondary

Obliques; Abdominals (rectus abdominis)

How to do the Cable Hammer Pushdown Jack

  1. Setup:

    • Adjust the cable machine so the pulley is set at a high position.

    • Attach a handle to the cable.

  2. Positioning:

    • Stand facing the cable machine, about a foot or so away from the base.

    • Hold the handle with both hands, palms facing each other, at chest level.

    • Keep your feet shoulder-width apart and maintain a slight bend in your knees for stability.

    • Engage your core to maintain balance.

  3. Movement:

    • Begin by keeping your elbows close to your body.

    • Push the handle downwards in a controlled motion, engaging your triceps. Imagine you are performing a hammering motion.

    • Extend your arms fully until they are straight down by your sides.

    • Hold the lowest position for a brief moment to maximize the contraction.

  4. Return:

    • Slowly raise the handle back to the starting position, keeping control of the movement.

    • Avoid allowing the weight to pull your arms back up; control it with your muscles.

  5. Repetitions:

    • Perform 8-12 repetitions for 2-3 sets, resting 30-60 seconds between sets.

  6. Tips:

    • Focus on form over weight; start with a lighter weight to ensure you perform the movement correctly.

    • Avoid arching your back; keep your back straight and core engaged throughout the exercise.

    • Breathe out as you push down and breathe in as you return to the starting position.

Cable Hammer Pushdown Jack FAQs

What muscles does the Cable Hammer Pushdown Jack work?

The Cable Hammer Pushdown Jack mainly works the triceps and chest, with help from the core. The main muscles are the triceps brachii and pectoralis major.

What equipment do you need for the Cable Hammer Pushdown Jack?

Cable handle attachment or cable machine.

What workout day should the Cable Hammer Pushdown Jack go on?

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

What are some Cable Hammer Pushdown Jack variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the Cable Incline Pushdown, Cable Single-Arm Tricep Pushdown Version II, Chest Pressdown and Cable Bench Press.

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