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Dumbbell Incline Triceps Extension

Isolate and strengthen your triceps with the Dumbbell Incline Triceps Extension! A great exercise for bigger arms.

The Dumbbell Incline Triceps Extension is a compound exercise that mainly works the triceps and chest, with help from the back. You'll need: dumbbells or incline bench.

Dumbbell Incline Triceps Extension demo video 2
Dumbbell Incline Triceps Extension demo video 3
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Required Equipment

Dumbbells
Dumbbells
Incline Bench
Incline Bench

Dumbbell Incline Triceps Extension Muscles Worked

Primary

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

Secondary

Rhomboids (Shoulder Blade) (rhomboids, major & minor); Boxer Muscle (serratus anterior)

How to do the Dumbbell Incline Triceps Extension

Dumbbell Incline Triceps Extension

  • An adjustable bench set to an incline (about 30 to 45 degrees)

1. Positioning:

  • Start by setting the bench to an incline angle of 30 to 45 degrees.

  • Sit on the bench with your feet flat on the ground, shoulder-width apart, and your back firmly against the bench for support.

  • Hold one dumbbell in each hand. Extend your arms toward the ceiling, keeping your elbows close to your head.

  1. Starting Position:

    • Your arms should be straight up, holding the dumbbells, with your palms facing each other. This is your starting position.

    • Ensure your core is engaged to maintain stability throughout the movement.

  2. Movement:

    • Slowly lower the dumbbells by bending your elbows, keeping them tight against your head. Lower them until your forearms are parallel to the ground or just below, depending on your comfort and flexibility.

    • Ensure that your upper arms remain stationary and close to your head throughout this motion to isolate the triceps effectively.

  3. Return:

    • Pause briefly at the bottom of the movement.

    • Press through your palms to raise the dumbbells back to the starting position, straightening your arms above your head without locking out your elbows.

  4. Repetitions:

    • Perform the desired number of repetitions (typically 8 to 12) with controlled movements.

  5. Tips:

    • Keep your movements slow and controlled to maintain proper form and avoid injury.

    • Avoid arching your back or using momentum to lift the weights; focus on using your triceps to do the work.

    • If you feel strain on your shoulder joints, consider lowering the weight and ensuring proper form.

  6. Finishing:

    • When finished, safely lower the dumbbells to your lap or the ground, and carefully stand up from the bench.

Dumbbell Incline Triceps Extension FAQs

What muscles does the Dumbbell Incline Triceps Extension work?

The Dumbbell Incline Triceps Extension mainly works the triceps and chest, with help from the back. The main muscles are the triceps brachii and pectoralis major.

What equipment do you need for the Dumbbell Incline Triceps Extension?

Dumbbells or incline bench.

Is the Dumbbell Incline Triceps 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 Dumbbell Incline Triceps Extension go on?

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

What are some Dumbbell Incline Triceps Extension variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the Band Incline Triceps Extension, Barbell Incline Triceps Extension Skull-Crusher, Dumbbell Incline Neutral-Grip Chest Press and Dumbbell Incline Tricep Kickback.

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