Triceps exercises: choose by purpose.

Train elbow extension with cable, dumbbell, machine and pressing variations. Compare practical options and choose movements by purpose, equipment and progression.

DIRECT ANSWER

Triceps exercises are movements used to train elbow extension with cable, dumbbell, machine and pressing variations. Exercise choice should fit the athlete, equipment and weekly programme rather than a universal ranking.

What belongs in this group

Train elbow extension with cable, dumbbell, machine and pressing variations.

Common options

These examples cover distinct setups rather than a ranked list.

  • Cable pressdown
  • Overhead cable extension
  • Close-grip press
  • Machine dip

How to choose

Use both arm-at-side and overhead positions when appropriate, while counting the triceps work already present in presses.

Keep the chosen movement stable long enough to compare performance, unless pain, equipment or programme fit requires a change.

Catalogue quality

Bulk Coach's exercise catalogue contains names, instructions, muscles, equipment, movement patterns and substitutions. Individual exercise URLs remain outside the sitemap until their instructions and added programming guidance receive a recorded founder review.

Sources and further reading

  1. Free Exercise DB public-domain source
Updated 7 August 2026Reviewed by James Wood, founder