← Exercise LibraryLockout Behind head
Standing Overhead Dumbbell Triceps Press
Also written as DB standing OH tricep press, Overhead tricep press
What it trains
triceps brachii
Also: shoulders, core
Equipment
dumbbell
Setup
- Stand tall holding one dumbbell with both hands, or one in each hand.
- Press it overhead to a locked-out position.
- Brace the abs and keep the ribs down.
Execution
- 1.Bend the elbows to lower the dumbbell behind the head.
- 2.Keep the upper arms pointing up and close to the ears.
- 3.Extend the elbows to press back to lockout.
Breathing
Inhale as you lower, exhale as you press.
Form cues
- Only the forearms move.
- Elbows stay narrow, close to the head.
- Do not let the lower back arch as the weight goes behind you.
Common mistakes
- Letting the elbows flare wide.
- Arching the lower back to compensate.
- Going heavier than the elbows and shoulders can control overhead.
Safety
- Keep the load modest — this position is unforgiving if a rep fails behind the head.