Exercise guide

Barbell Lying Tricep Extension

Lying Barbell Tricep Extensions are a classic isolation exercise for building triceps size and strength. Performed lying on a bench, this movement places constant tension on the triceps through elbow extension while minimizing involvement from the shoulders.

Category
Strength
Difficulty
Intermediate
Movement
Isolation
Bodyweight
No
Triceps muscle illustration
Sculpt
How to

How to do the Barbell Lying Tricep Extension

  1. 01

    Lie flat on a bench holding a barbell with a shoulder-width grip.

  2. 02

    Extend your arms straight up over your chest with the barbell balanced above your shoulders.

  3. 03

    Keep your upper arms fixed and slowly bend your elbows to lower the barbell toward your forehead.

  4. 04

    Lower until you feel a strong stretch in the triceps.

  5. 05

    Extend your elbows to press the barbell back to the starting position.

  6. 06

    Repeat for the desired number of reps.

Performance tips

Cues that matter

  • Keep your elbows pointed slightly inward and stable.
  • Lower the bar under control to protect your elbows.
  • Avoid flaring your elbows or turning the movement into a press.
Muscles

Muscles worked

Equipment

What you need

Common questions

Frequently asked

What muscles does the Barbell Lying Tricep Extension work?

The Barbell Lying Tricep Extension primarily targets the Triceps.

Is the Barbell Lying Tricep Extension a compound or isolation exercise?

The Barbell Lying Tricep Extension is an isolation exercise, meaning it focuses on a single muscle group through one joint movement.

What equipment do I need for the Barbell Lying Tricep Extension?

You need the following equipment: Barbell, Bench.

What difficulty level is the Barbell Lying Tricep Extension?

The Barbell Lying Tricep Extension is rated as intermediate difficulty. Some training experience is helpful for performing this exercise safely.

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