Standing overhead triceps extensions are a great exercise for targeting the triceps muscles. This exercise is also known as the French press or the skull crusher. It can be performed with a barbell, dumbbells, or an EZ bar. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of standing overhead triceps extensions, how to perform the exercise, and variations of the exercise.
Benefits of Standing Overhead Triceps Extensions
Standing overhead triceps extensions are a great exercise for building strength and size in the triceps muscles. The triceps muscles are responsible for extending the elbow joint and are used in many upper body movements such as pushing and pulling. By strengthening the triceps muscles, you can improve your overall upper body strength and performance.
Standing overhead triceps extensions are also a great exercise for improving your shoulder stability and mobility. Since the exercise requires you to hold the weight overhead, it can help improve your shoulder strength and stabilizers. This can help prevent shoulder injuries and improve your posture.
How to Perform Standing Overhead Triceps Extensions
To perform standing overhead triceps extensions, follow these steps:
- Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and hold the weight with both hands behind your head.
- Keep your elbows close to your head and slowly lower the weight behind your head until your forearms are parallel to the ground.
- Pause for a moment and then slowly raise the weight back up to the starting position.
- Repeat for the desired number of reps.
When performing this exercise, it is important to keep your elbows close to your head and to use a weight that you can control. Avoid using momentum to lift the weight and focus on using your triceps muscles to perform the movement.
Variations of Standing Overhead Triceps Extensions
There are several variations of standing overhead triceps extensions that you can perform to add variety to your workout:
- Dumbbell standing overhead triceps extensions
- EZ bar standing overhead triceps extensions
- Single-arm standing overhead triceps extensions
- Seated overhead triceps extensions
Each of these variations targets the triceps muscles in slightly different ways and can be used to add variety to your workout routine.
Conclusion
Standing overhead triceps extensions are a great exercise for building strength and size in the triceps muscles. They are also a great exercise for improving your shoulder stability and mobility. By adding standing overhead triceps extensions to your workout routine, you can improve your overall upper body strength and performance.