Fitness Champ Get the app

Triceps exercise · cable

Cable Reverse-Grip Pushdown

The cable reverse-grip pushdown is a cable exercise that targets the triceps, with the forearms assisting.

Animated demonstration of the cable reverse-grip pushdown
Cable Reverse-Grip Pushdown — demonstration
Target muscle
Triceps
Also works
Forearms
Equipment
Cable
Body part
Upper arms

How to do the cable reverse-grip pushdown

  1. Attach a straight bar to a high pulley cable machine.
  2. Stand facing the machine with your feet shoulder-width apart.
  3. Grasp the bar with an underhand grip, palms facing up, and your hands shoulder-width apart.
  4. Keep your elbows close to your sides and your upper arms stationary throughout the exercise.
  5. Using your triceps, push the bar down until your arms are fully extended and your triceps are contracted.
  6. Pause for a moment, then slowly return the bar to the starting position.
  7. 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 forearms work as secondary muscles. See all triceps exercises or every cable exercise.

Free on iPhone and Android

Track your cable reverse-grip pushdown in the app.

Every one of these 1,300+ exercises is in the app with its demo and steps. Build a plan for your goal, log every set, and the rest timer starts itself. No account, no ads.

QR code linking to the Fitness Champ download

Scan to get the app

Similar triceps exercises