Exercise description of the overhead standing tricep extension.  Learn about the overhead standing tricep extension with videos, pictures, and other sports information.  Also learn how the overhead standing tricep extension can increase your sports skills.

Primary muscles worked:  Triceps

Synergist Muscles:  N/a

Mechanics:  Isolation

Equipment:  A dumbbell

How to perform the exercise:  To perform the single arm standing overhead tricep extension, grab a dumbbell with a neutral grip. Hold the arm in full extension up above the body. Make sure the elbow is facing away from the body. With the non-weight bearing hand, grab and support just below the elbow. Next, lower the weight down, bending at the elbow. All motion should come from the elbow, the shoulder and hand should not move. Once the forearm is parallel to the floor the athlete may bring the arm back to full extension.

Spotting the exercise:  A spotter will be able to assist with the SA OH tricep extension by grabbing on the lifters wrist if they are unable to perform the exercise through the full range of motion. The spotter can provide an additional upward force to the weight if the athlete struggles. The spotter should also be critical of technique to ensure safety of the elbow and shoulder joints.

Sport specific application:  Tricep strength is integral to full extension of the arm from a flexed state. Examples are: a follow though on a basketball shot, a stiff arm in football, and dribbling in basketball. These are just a few examples of how the single arm overhead tricep extension can translate in to increased athletic performance.