triceps beginner

Tricep Cable Pushdown

Cable MachineRope or Bar Attachment

Overview

The most popular tricep isolation exercise. A cable pushdown from the high pulley. Keeps constant tension and allows fine-tuning of which tricep head is targeted by the attachment and grip used.

Muscles Trained

Primary triceps

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. 1

    Set cable to the highest position. Attach a rope or straight bar.

  2. 2

    Stand close to the machine, grip the attachment, elbows at your sides.

  3. 3

    Push the attachment down until arms are fully extended.

  4. 4

    At the bottom, rotate hands outward slightly (with a rope) for a peak contraction.

  5. 5

    Return to 90° elbow bend — do not let elbows drift forward.

Benefits

  • Easy to learn, consistent tension throughout

  • Great pump and mind-muscle connection

  • Can adjust grip for slightly different tricep head emphasis

  • Low joint stress — safe for daily use

Form Tips

  • Rope: allows hands to splay at bottom for a better squeeze

  • Keep elbows pinned to your sides — if they flare, the weight is too heavy

Watch Video Tutorial

Search YouTube for demonstration

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