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Triceps

Triceps kickback: how to do it right

In the triceps kickback you straighten your arm back with your torso bent forward. It isolates your triceps with light weight.

Main muscle
Triceps
Equipment
Dumbbell and bench
Level
Beginner
Triceps kickback: start position
Start position
Triceps kickback: end position
End position

Step by step

  1. Place one knee and one hand on a bench, back straight.
  2. Pick up the dumbbell and raise your elbow until your upper arm is parallel to the floor.
  3. Straighten your arm back until it's straight.
  4. Return slowly, bending your elbow without dropping your upper arm.

Tip: Squeeze your triceps for a second with your arm straight.

Common mistakes

Elbow dropping

Your upper arm stays fixed, parallel to the floor; only your forearm moves.

Swinging the dumbbell

Use light weight and control the movement.

Short range

Straighten your arm fully.

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

Is it a good exercise?

It's a good complement with light weight; for heavier loads, cables or the close-grip press are better.

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

Add triceps kickback to your routine

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