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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. 1.Bend the elbows to lower the dumbbell behind the head.
  2. 2.Keep the upper arms pointing up and close to the ears.
  3. 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.

Technique written to align with

  • ACSM — Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription

Instructions and diagrams on this page are original to QuantumWorkout.