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Top Triceps Exercises for Strength and Definition

a man in a gym holding his hands together
a man in a gym holding his hands together


Achieving toned and powerful triceps is essential for balanced upper-body strength and aesthetic appeal. Incorporating the best triceps exercises into your workout routine can help you build muscle, improve arm stability, and enhance overall physique. Here are some of the most effective exercises to target your triceps:


Close-Grip Bench Press

This compound movement emphasizes the triceps while also engaging the chest and shoulders. Lie on a bench, grip the barbell with hands shoulder-width apart, and lower it to your chest before pressing back up.

Tricep Dips

Using parallel bars or a bench, lower your body until your elbows are at a 90-degree angle, then push back up. Dips effectively target all three heads of the triceps for comprehensive development.

Overhead Triceps Extension

Hold a dumbbell or EZ bar overhead with both hands, then lower it behind your head by bending the elbows. This exercise stretches and works the long head of the triceps for added size and strength.

Skull Crushers (Lying Triceps Extensions)

Lying on a bench, extend a barbell or dumbbells from your forehead to arm’s length, then lower them towards your forehead by bending the elbows. This move isolates the triceps effectively.

Pushdowns with Cable Machine

Attach a rope or bar to a high pulley, grip it, and push downward until your arms are fully extended. This exercise allows for controlled movement and constant tension on the triceps.

Tips for Optimal Results:

  • Incorporate 3-4 sets of 8-12 reps for each exercise.

  • Focus on proper form to prevent injury and maximize muscle engagement.

  • Gradually increase weight as your strength improves.

  • Combine these exercises with a balanced diet and overall fitness routine for the best results.

By consistently incorporating these top triceps exercises into your training, you'll develop stronger, more defined arms that enhance your overall physique.