Triceps Pushdown (Bar)

A cable isolation exercise targeting the triceps. Useful for adding arm volume without heavy shoulder or chest involvement.

Also known as: triceps pushdown bar, triceps pushdown with bar, cable triceps pushdown bar, cable triceps pushdown with bar, triceps pushdown straight bar

Beginner Isolation Cable machineStraight bar attachment

How to do the Triceps Pushdown (Bar)

  1. Stand facing the cable stack with a straight bar attached at the high pulley.
  2. Grip the bar overhand at about shoulder width and step back to tension the cable.
  3. Set your upper arms by your sides with elbows bent and the bar near lower chest height.
  4. Keep your torso upright with a slight forward lean and wrists stacked under the bar.
  5. Press the bar straight down by extending your elbows until your arms are fully straight.
  6. Finish with the bar near your thighs without letting your shoulders roll forward.
  7. Let the bar rise back up until your forearms are folded and elbows stay pinned in place.

Common mistakes

  • Elbows drifting forward each rep
  • Shoulders rocking the weight down
  • Stopping short of full extension
  • Wrists curling under the bar
  • Leaning bodyweight onto the handle

Form cues

  • Pin elbows to sides
  • Straighten arms completely
  • Keep shoulders quiet
  • Bar finishes near thighs

Substitutes & similar