How to Do Seated Triceps Press
Step-by-step instructions, muscles worked and workouts that use the seated triceps press.

| Main muscles | Triceps |
| Also works | — |
| Equipment | Dumbbell |
| Level | Beginner |
| Type | Strength |
How to do it
- Sit down on a bench with back support and grasp a dumbbell with both hands and hold it overhead at arm's length. Tip: a better way is to have somebody hand it to you especially if it is very heavy. The resistance should be resting in the palms of your hands with your thumbs around it. The palm of the hand should be facing inward. This will be your starting position.
- Keeping your upper arms close to your head (elbows in) and perpendicular to the floor, lower the resistance in a semi-circular motion behind your head until your forearms touch your biceps. Tip: The upper arms should remain stationary and only the forearms should move. Breathe in as you perform this step.
- Go back to the starting position by using the triceps to raise the dumbbell. Breathe out as you perform this step.
- Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.
Form tips
- Start light and own the movement before adding weight.
- Control the lowering phase — don't drop into it.
- Keep breathing; exhale on the hardest part.
- Stop if you feel sharp pain (different from muscle burn).
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Gear for this exercise
Adjustable dumbbellsA full home gym in one small space.See it on Amazon →
Adjustable workout benchUnlocks presses, rows and step-ups at home.See it on Amazon →New fat-loss tips every day. Follow danfitnz everywhere: