Tricep Extension (Kettlebell)

Level
beginner
Force
push
Mechanic
isolation
Equipment
kettlebells
Category
strength
Primary Muscles
Secondary Muscles

An isolation exercise that targets the triceps by extending the arm overhead with a kettlebell, emphasizing the long head of the triceps.

Instructions

  1. Stand with feet hip-width apart, knees slightly bent, and core engaged.
  2. Hold a kettlebell with both hands or one hand, pressing it overhead until your arm is fully extended.
  3. Keeping your upper arm stationary and elbow in a fixed position, lower the kettlebell behind your head by bending only at the elbow.
  4. Descend until your forearm is roughly perpendicular to the ground or until you feel a strong stretch in the triceps.
  5. Extend your elbow and press the kettlebell back to the starting position overhead.
  6. Maintain a slight arch in your back and avoid leaning backward during the movement.

Tips

  • Keep your elbows tucked close to your head; flaring them outward reduces tricep activation and increases shoulder stress.
  • Move through a full range of motion to maximize tricep activation and stretch.
  • Control the weight on the lowering phase; avoid dropping it quickly behind your head.
  • A slight arch in the lower back is acceptable, but avoid excessive backward lean that places stress on the spine.
  • For single-arm variations, maintain a stable core and avoid rotating or tilting to compensate.
  • Perform this movement slowly and deliberately to maintain constant tension on the triceps throughout the set.

Recommended starting values

Sensible novice starting points for each goal, for a lifter aged 25–40. Scale down for smaller frames or older lifters. Treat the first set of any session as a discovery set.

Goal Sets Reps Weight
Male Female
Gain strength 3 9 reps 13 kg 7 kg
Build muscle 3 13 reps 12 kg 7 kg
Build endurance 3 16 reps 9 kg 5 kg

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