How to Do Standing Overhead Barbell Triceps Extension
Step-by-step instructions, muscles worked and workouts that use the standing overhead barbell triceps extension.

| Main muscles | Triceps |
| Also works | Shoulders |
| Equipment | Barbell |
| Level | Beginner |
| Type | Strength |
How to do it
- To begin, stand up holding a barbell or e-z bar using a pronated grip (palms facing forward) with your hands closer than shoulder width apart from each other. Your feet should be about shoulder width apart.
- Now elevate the barbell above your head until your arms are fully extended. Keep your elbows in. This will be your starting position.
- Keeping your upper arms close to your head and elbows in, 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 barbell. 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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