Tricep Pushdowns
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Cable triceps pushdown working all three heads; the basic/major-muscle triceps exercise and a novice selection.
Detail
Tricep pushdowns (M, L, LH) work all three triceps heads via elbow extension. Listed as the major-muscle-group triceps exercise (with French presses) for muscle balance, and as the novice triceps selection. Cable pushdown occupies the "midrange" position of the triceps Positions-of-Flexion chart (with lying tricep extension). Performed on cable (TK) or Life Circuit machines. A close-grip handle is NOT more effective than a wide-grip position for triceps extension — the source poses and answers this directly ("Is a close-grip triceps extension more effective than wide-grip position?" — No).
Key facts
- Primary: all three triceps heads (Long, Medial, Lateral).
- Major-muscle triceps exercise; novice-level.
- "Midrange" position in the triceps Positions-of-Flexion chart.
- Close-grip handle is NOT more effective than wide-grip for triceps extension.
Connections
- Triceps Brachii — all three heads.
- French Press — paired major-muscle triceps exercise.
- One Arm Tricep Pushdown (Reverse Grip) — the reverse-grip single-arm variant.
- Horizontal Tricep Extension With Rope — rope variant, lateral-head-emphasis alternative.
Sources
Exercise guides
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Educational content only — not medical advice. Always consult a qualified professional for individualized guidance, especially around injury, pregnancy, or medical conditions.