Parallel-Bar Dip
Strengthen your triceps with Parallel-Bar High Tricep Dips! A challenging bodyweight exercise for upper body and core strength.
The Parallel-Bar Dip is a compound exercise that mainly works the triceps, with help from the chest and shoulders. You'll need: high parallel bars.
Required Equipment

Parallel-Bar Dip Muscles Worked
Primary
Triceps (triceps brachii)
Secondary
Chest (pectoralis major, sternal head); Front Shoulder (anterior deltoid)
Parallel-Bar Dip Variations and Alternatives
How to do the Parallel-Bar Dip
Starting Position:
Stand between the parallel bars and grip each bar firmly. Your hands should be shoulder-width apart.
Use your legs to jump or step up onto the bars. Your arms should be fully extended, and your body should be in a vertical line.
Body Positioning:
Keep your shoulders down and back to maintain good posture. Your core should be engaged to support your spine.
Your legs can be bent at the knees or straight down, whichever feels comfortable for you.
Lowering Phase:
Slowly lower your body by bending your elbows. Keep your elbows close to your body as you descend.
Lower yourself until your upper arms are parallel to the ground or slightly below. Ensure that your shoulders remain stable.
Rising Phase:
Push through your palms to extend your arms and lift your body back to the starting position.
Focus on squeezing your triceps as you push upward to fully extend your arms at the top.
Repetitions:
Aim to perform 8-12 repetitions. Rest briefly if needed, then repeat for 2-3 sets.
Tips:
Keep your movements controlled to avoid injury.
Avoid swinging your body; maintain a steady pace throughout the exercise.
If you find it difficult, you can start with your feet on the ground or use a lower bar.
Parallel-Bar Dip FAQs
What muscles does the Parallel-Bar Dip work?
The Parallel-Bar Dip mainly works the triceps, with help from the chest and shoulders. The main muscles are the triceps brachii.
What equipment do you need for the Parallel-Bar Dip?
High parallel bars.
Is the Parallel-Bar Dip 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 Parallel-Bar Dip go on?
It belongs on push day in a push/pull/legs routine.
What are some Parallel-Bar Dip variations and alternatives?
Similar exercises include the Bodyweight Bench Dip, Chest Dip, Cross-Arm Triceps Extension and Parallel-Bar Deep Push-Up.
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