Appears in642 Workouts*

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.

Mr. Grey
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@JustGains_XY

Required Equipment

High Parallel Bars
High Parallel Bars

Parallel-Bar Dip Muscles Worked

Primary

Triceps (triceps brachii)

Secondary

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

How to do the Parallel-Bar Dip

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

  4. 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.

  5. 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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