Tricep Pushdown (Cable): how to do it and muscles worked

The tricep pushdown (cable) mainly works your triceps. You need a cable machine.

Muscles worked

How to do the tricep pushdown (cable)

  1. 1

    Stand facing a high cable pulley with a straight bar, feet hip-width apart and a slight forward lean. Grip the bar with palms down and elbows pinned to your sides.

  2. 2

    Push the bar down until your arms are fully straight, squeezing your triceps at the bottom. Keep your elbows locked at your sides throughout.

  3. 3

    Let the bar rise slowly until your forearms are just above parallel, taking about 2 to 3 seconds. Breathe out as you push and in as you return.

Form tip: Do not lean over the bar or let your elbows flare forward; only your forearms should move.

Common questions

Which muscles does the tricep pushdown (cable) work?
The tricep pushdown (cable) mainly works your triceps.
What equipment do I need for the tricep pushdown (cable)?
You need a cable machine.
How many sets and reps should I do?
A common starting point is 2 to 4 sets of 8 to 12 controlled reps, with a weight that leaves a couple of reps in reserve. Adjust it to your goal and experience, and stop if something hurts.
How do I track the tricep pushdown (cable) in SweatByte?
Add it to a routine or a workout. Log the weight and reps for each set. SweatByte shows your last session's numbers on every set, so you know what to beat.

More triceps exercises

General information, not medical advice. Learn the movement with light weight first, and see a doctor or physiotherapist if you have an injury or pain. More guides in Learn.

Tricep Pushdown (Cable): how to do it and muscles worked · SweatByte