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Triceps exercise · barbell

Barbell Seated Overhead Triceps Extension

The barbell seated overhead triceps extension is a barbell exercise that targets the triceps, with the shoulders assisting.

Animated demonstration of the barbell seated overhead triceps extension
Barbell Seated Overhead Triceps Extension — demonstration
Target muscle
Triceps
Also works
Shoulders
Equipment
Barbell
Body part
Upper arms

How to do the barbell seated overhead triceps extension

  1. Sit on a bench with your back straight and feet flat on the ground.
  2. Hold a barbell with an overhand grip, hands shoulder-width apart, and raise it overhead.
  3. Lower the barbell behind your head by bending your elbows, keeping your upper arms close to your head.
  4. Pause for a moment, then extend your arms to raise the barbell back to the starting position.
  5. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

Sets and reps

For muscle growth, 3–4 sets of 8–12 reps with 60–90 seconds of rest is a proven starting point. For strength, use a heavier weight for 3–5 sets of 3–6 reps and rest 2–3 minutes. Add a little weight once you hit the top of your rep range on every set.

Muscles worked

The main muscle is the triceps. The shoulders work as secondary muscles. See all triceps exercises or every barbell exercise.

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