Exercises · upper arms

Cable Standing One Arm Triceps Extension

A single-arm cable triceps isolation exercise done standing, extending the elbow while keeping the upper arm fixed.

upper armstricepscablebeginnerisolationunilateral

Secondary muscles

shoulders

How to do it

  1. Stand side-on to the cable machine and grasp the handle with one hand.
  2. Step away until the cable is taut, then raise your upper arm so it stays roughly parallel to the floor.
  3. Bend your elbow to bring the handle toward the side of your head while keeping your upper arm still.
  4. Extend your elbow to press the handle away until your arm is straight.
  5. Pause briefly with your triceps tight, then return under control.
  6. Complete all reps on one side, then switch arms.

Form cues

  • Keep elbow still
  • Upper arm stays level
  • Straighten the arm fully
  • Move only at elbow

Common mistakes

  • Letting the elbow drift up and down during the rep
  • Turning the torso to help move the handle
  • Dropping the upper arm instead of keeping it level
  • Using momentum and snapping the cable back

Breathing

Inhale as you bend your elbow and bring the handle in; exhale as you straighten your arm.

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