Back to library

Exercise Library

Cable Triceps Pushdown (V-Bar)

A triceps pushdown using a V-shaped bar whose angled grips keep the wrists neutral while extending the elbows against a high cable.

ArmsCableElbow extension

Primary

Triceps brachii

Secondary

AnconeusForearm flexors

Equipment

Cable

Pattern

Elbow extension

Setup

  1. 01Attach a V-bar to a high pulley.
  2. 02Grip the angled handles with palms facing in.
  3. 03Stand close with a slight forward hinge.
  4. 04Pin the elbows to the sides at 90 degrees.

Execution

  1. 01Push the bar down until the arms straighten.
  2. 02Squeeze the triceps hard at lockout.
  3. 03Let the bar rise until forearms pass parallel.
  4. 04Keep the elbows pinned through every rep.

Checkpoints

  • -Elbows stay glued to the sides throughout.
  • -Wrists stay neutral along the V-bar angles.
  • -The torso stays still with a slight fixed lean.
  • -The stack never touches down between reps.

Common mistakes

  • -Leaning over the bar and pressing with body weight.
  • -Letting the elbows drift forward on the way up.
  • -Cutting the top range short of a full stretch.
  • -Snapping into lockout instead of squeezing.

Programming notes

  • -Use 3 to 4 sets of 10 to 15 reps.
  • -Pause one second at lockout to harden the contraction.
  • -Rotate with rope and straight-bar pushdowns across training blocks.

Related exercises

Almost there

Coming soon to iOS & Android

GoLightWeight is in the final stretch. Free to download, no account required to start.

Coming soonApp Store
Coming soonGoogle Play