Exercise library · Arms

Straight Bar Pushdown.

An isolation exercise specifically targeting the triceps for arm development.

BeginnerCable Machine
Straight Bar Pushdown
The numbers
Sets
3–4
Reps
10–15
Rest
45–75
Muscles
Primary
Triceps (lateral head)
The play-by-play

How to do it.

  1. Step 01

    Stand facing a cable machine with a straight bar attached to the high pulley.

  2. Step 02

    Grasp the bar with an overhand grip, hands shoulder-width apart.

  3. Step 03

    Tuck your elbows close to your sides and slightly lean forward.

  4. Step 04

    Extend your forearms downwards, pushing the bar towards your thighs.

  5. Step 05

    Squeeze your triceps at the bottom of the movement.

  6. Step 06

    Slowly return the bar to the starting position, controlling the eccentric phase.

What separates good from great

Pro cues.

  • Keep your elbows stationary and close to your body.

  • Focus on triceps contraction, not momentum.

  • Avoid shrugging your shoulders or using your back.