Exercise guide
Cable Standing One Arm Tricep Pushdown Overhand Grip
- Beginner
- Isolation
- Rep-based
- Shoulders
- Upper arms
This unilateral isolation exercise targets the triceps, specifically the lateral head, while allowing you to address strength imbalances between arms. By using a single-arm approach, you can achieve a greater range of motion and better mind-muscle connection than with bilateral variations.
Reviewed by the Crucible team · Updated June 2026
Muscles worked
Setup
- Set the cable pulley to the highest position and attach a single D-handle.
- Stand facing the machine with a shoulder-width stance or a slight staggered stance for better stability.
- Grip the handle with an overhand (pronated) grip, palm facing down.
- Pull the handle down so your upper arm is tucked against your side and your elbow is bent at roughly 90 degrees.
How to do it
- Exhale as you push the handle down by extending your elbow until your arm is fully straight.
- Squeeze your tricep hard at the bottom of the movement for one second.
- Inhale as you slowly return the handle to the starting position, maintaining a controlled 2-second tempo.
- Keep your upper arm pinned to your ribcage throughout the entire set; only your forearm should move.
Form checklist
- Keep your elbow locked in place against your side throughout the movement.
- Avoid using momentum or leaning your body weight into the push.
- Maintain a neutral spine and engaged core to prevent arching your back.
- Ensure the wrist remains straight and firm, not curling or snapping at the bottom.
Pro tips
- Focus on 'pushing through the pinky' side of your hand to maximize lateral head engagement.
- Start with your weaker arm first to ensure equal volume and intensity across both sides.
- Imagine your elbow is a fixed hinge that cannot move forward or backward.
Make it harder
- Implement a 3-4 second eccentric (upward) phase to increase time under tension.
- Add a 2-second peak contraction hold at the bottom of every rep to maximize muscle fiber recruitment.
Frequently asked
- What muscles does the cable standing one arm tricep pushdown overhand grip work?
- The cable standing one arm tricep pushdown overhand grip primarily targets the triceps, and also works the biceps and forearms as secondary muscles.
- What equipment do you need for the cable standing one arm tricep pushdown overhand grip?
- The cable standing one arm tricep pushdown overhand grip uses cable.
- Is the cable standing one arm tricep pushdown overhand grip good for beginners?
- Yes. The cable standing one arm tricep pushdown overhand grip is a beginner-friendly movement and a strong foundation to build on.