How to Do Standing Dumbbell Triceps Extension
Step-by-step instructions, muscles worked and workouts that use the standing dumbbell triceps extension.

| Main muscles | Triceps |
| Also works | — |
| Equipment | Dumbbell |
| Level | Beginner |
| Type | Strength |
How to do it
- To begin, stand up with a dumbbell held by both hands. Your feet should be about shoulder width apart from each other. Slowly use both hands to grab the dumbbell and lift it over your head until both arms are fully extended.
- The resistance should be resting in the palms of your hands with your thumbs around it. The palm of the hands should be facing up towards the ceiling. This will be your starting position.
- Keeping your upper arms close to your head with elbows in and perpendicular to the floor, lower the resistance in a semicircular 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).
Workouts with this exercise
Dumbbell Arms Workout for Beginners5 exercises · about 31 min · DumbbellGym Arms Workout for Beginners5 exercises · about 31 min · GymDumbbell Upper Body Workout for Intermediate6 exercises · about 47 min · Dumbbell
Similar exercises






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: