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One-Arm Standing Dumbbell Extension 101 Video Tutorial

Gym Modified Variation Strength

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One-Arm Standing Dumbbell Extension
One-Arm Standing Dumbbell Extension

Exercise Synopsis

Target Muscle Group

Triceps

Secondary Targets

None

Execution

Isolation

Force Type

Push

Required Equipment

Dumbbell

Fitness Level

Intermediate

Variations

None

Alternatives

None

Timer

Hour

Minute

Second

Stopwatch

00:00:00:00

Overview

The One-Arm Standing Dumbbell Extension is a highly effective exercise designed to isolate and strengthen the triceps. Performed standing, it involves holding a dumbbell in one hand and extending the arm overhead while keeping the elbow stationary. The movement focuses solely on the triceps, making it an excellent choice for targeting this muscle group without engaging secondary muscles. To perform the exercise, start by holding a dumbbell with one hand, extend your arm fully overhead, and then lower the dumbbell behind your head by bending the elbow. Return to the starting position and repeat. This exercise is ideal for enhancing triceps strength and definition, contributing to overall upper arm development.

How to Perform

  1. Begin Position: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, holding a dumbbell in one hand. Extend your arm straight up above your head. Ensure that your elbow is not locked out at the top of the movement.

  2. Performing the Extension: Slowly lower the dumbbell behind your head by bending your elbow. Aim to use a full range of motion, allowing your triceps to fully stretch and contract.

  3. Maintain Stability: Keep your upper arm as still as possible throughout the exercise. Focus on driving the movement with your forearm to maintain proper form and maximize triceps engagement.

  4. Return to Start: Extend your arm back to the starting position while keeping the elbow stationary. Ensure that your movement is controlled and smooth.

  5. Repetition and Sets: Perform the desired number of repetitions, then switch arms. Incorporate this exercise into your routine to effectively target and strengthen the triceps.

Tips

  1. Stand Tall: Position your feet shoulder-width apart and keep your torso upright throughout the exercise.

  2. Grip and Start: Hold a dumbbell in one hand with your arm fully extended above your head.

  3. Stabilize Upper Arm: Keep your upper arm close to your head and stationary throughout the movement.

  4. Control the Descent: Lower the dumbbell behind your head by bending your elbow slowly and with control.

  5. Avoid Elbow Lockout: Do not fully lock out your elbow at the top of the extension to maintain tension on the triceps.

  6. Engage Triceps: Focus on using your triceps to lift and lower the dumbbell, minimizing forearm involvement.

  7. Full Range of Motion: Ensure a full range of motion for maximum triceps activation and muscle engagement.

  8. Breathing: Inhale as you lower the dumbbell and exhale as you extend your arm back to the starting position.

  9. Alternate Arms: Perform the exercise on both arms to ensure balanced muscle development.

  10. Controlled Movements: Perform the exercise in a slow and controlled manner to reduce the risk of injury and enhance effectiveness.

How Not to Perform

  1. Avoid Swinging: Do not use momentum or swing your arm to lift the dumbbell. This can lead to poor form and reduce triceps activation. Keep the movement controlled.

  2. Prevent Elbow Lockout: Do not lock your elbow at the top of the movement. Fully extending and locking out the elbow can stress the joint and reduce muscle engagement.

  3. No Excessive Weight: Avoid using a weight that is too heavy, which may cause strain and lead to poor technique. Choose a weight that allows for proper form and full range of motion.

  4. Avoid Shoulder Involvement: Do not allow your shoulder to move or elevate during the exercise. Keep your upper arm close to your head to focus on the triceps.

  5. Minimize Forearm Movement: Do not let your forearm move excessively during the extension. The triceps should drive the movement, not the forearm.

  6. Don’t Arch Your Back: Avoid arching your back to compensate for the weight. Maintain a stable and upright torso to prevent lower back strain.

  7. Skip Rapid Movements: Do not perform the exercise too quickly. Rapid movements can lead to improper form and reduce effectiveness. Use a slow and controlled pace.

  8. Avoid Overstretching: Do not lower the dumbbell too far behind your head, which can strain the shoulder and elbow joints. Stop when you feel a comfortable stretch in your triceps.

  9. Don’t Neglect Breathing: Avoid holding your breath. Ensure you exhale as you extend the dumbbell and inhale as you lower it.

  10. No Arm Flare: Do not allow your elbow to flare out to the side. Keep it close to your head to maintain focus on the triceps and avoid shoulder strain.

Variations

Variations of fitness exercises refer to different ways of performing a specific exercise or movement to target various muscle groups, intensities, or goals. These variations aim to challenge the body differently, prevent plateaus, and cater to individuals with varying fitness levels.

Alternatives

Alternative exercises in fitness refer to different movements or activities that target similar muscle groups or serve the same training purpose as the primary exercise. These alternative exercises can be used as substitutes when the original exercise is unavailable or challenging to perform due to various reasons such as equipment limitations, injuries, or personal preferences.

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