Fysiqal

Isolation · Beginner

Tricep Pushdown

Isolation isolation exercise using cable, machine.
Tricep Pushdown demonstration (no audio).
Movement pattern
Isolation
Difficulty
Beginner
Equipment
Cable, Machine
Mechanics
Isolation
Sides
Bilateral
Main plane
Sagittal

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How to do the Tricep Pushdown

Cues reviewed by Kwabena Osei on

Setup

Stand facing a high pulley, gripping the bar or handle with your elbows tucked at your sides.

  1. Push the bar down by extending your elbows, keeping your upper arms fixed at your sides throughout.

  2. Squeeze at the bottom, then return under control to a stretch at the top.

  3. Grip width doesn't change effectiveness here -- a close grip is not more effective than a wide grip for this exercise, so choose whichever feels most comfortable.

Common mistakes

  • Letting the elbows drift forward or flare out to help push the weight instead of keeping them fixed at your sides.

  • Using body weight/leaning into the movement instead of isolating the extension at the elbow.

Muscles worked

Primary

Secondary

None listed in the graph
How the knowledge graph models this movement

Each joint action, with the role and emphasis the graph assigns each muscle. These are qualitative anatomical labels, not measured muscle activation.

  • Elbow extensionprimary action

    Triceps brachii (prime mover, high emphasis); Triceps brachii (prime mover, high emphasis); Triceps brachii (prime mover, moderate emphasis)

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Educational content only — not medical advice. Consult a qualified professional for individual guidance, especially around injury, pregnancy or medical conditions.