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Triceps

Rope triceps pushdown: how to do it right

This is the pushdown with a rope. Spreading the ends at the bottom contracts your triceps more than a bar.

Main muscle
Triceps
Equipment
High cable with rope
Level
Beginner
Rope triceps pushdown: start position
Start position
Rope triceps pushdown: end position
End position

Step by step

  1. Attach a rope to the high pulley and grab one end in each hand.
  2. With your elbows close to your body, push down.
  3. At the bottom, spread the rope ends out to the sides.
  4. Let it rise slowly until your forearms are parallel to the floor.

Tip: Use a bit less weight than with the bar so you can spread the rope properly.

Common mistakes

Loose elbows

Your elbows stay fixed by your body.

Leaning too far

Keep your torso almost upright.

Not spreading at the bottom

Spreading the rope at the end is what sets it apart from the bar.

Sets and reps

Guide ranges. Start with a weight where the last rep is hard but your technique holds.

GoalSetsRepsRest
Strength3–53–62–3 min
Build muscle3–46–121.5–2 min
Health and fitness2–310–151 min

In GymOrbita you log every set and the app suggests the weight for your next session based on what you did last time.

Alternatives

If the machine is busy or you want a variation:

FAQ

How many reps?

Between 10 and 15 usually works well.

General technique information, not a substitute for professional advice. If you have an injury or pain, check with a doctor or physiotherapist first.

Add rope triceps pushdown to your routine

GymOrbita has this exercise with its animation: log the weight and reps of every set and track your progress. Free.