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Suspension Trainer Kneeling Tricep Extension

Intermediate
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A suspension trainer isolation exercise that targets the triceps through elbow extension in a kneeling position. It builds arm strength while engaging the core for stability and is commonly scaled by adjusting the body angle.

About Exercise

Equipment

Suspension Trainer

Difficulty

3/5 • Intermediate

Primary Muscle Groups

Triceps

Secondary Muscles

Shoulders, Abs, Forearms, Lower Back

Popularity Score

7

Goals

Strength
Hypertrophy

Training Style

Calisthenics
Functional Training

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

No

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Small

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Triceps

10/10

Long Head, Lateral Head, Medial Head

Shoulders

5/10

Anterior Delts

Abs

4/10

Rectus Abdominis

Forearms

3/10

Flexors

Lower Back

3/10

Erector Spinae

Programming

Typical Rep Range

8-15 reps

Rest Between Sets

60-90 seconds

How to Perform

Attach the suspension trainer to a high anchor point. Kneel facing away from the anchor, holding the handles with an overhand grip and arms extended forward at shoulder height.

  1. Engage your core and lean forward slightly to create tension in the straps.
  2. Bend your elbows to lower your body until your hands are near your forehead.
  3. Keep your elbows tucked in and stationary throughout the movement.
  4. Extend your elbows to drive your body back to the starting position.
  5. Squeeze your triceps at the top of the movement.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Elbows in
  • Body like a plank
  • Move only at elbows
  • Core tight

Breathing

Inhale as you lower your body, and exhale forcefully as you extend your arms.

Tempo

3-1-1

Range of Motion

Lower until elbows are flexed past 90 degrees; extend fully without locking out violently.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Ensure anchor point is secure
  • Stop if you feel sharp pain in the elbows
  • Use a mat to cushion knees

Spotting

No spotter needed; self-spot by reducing the body angle or stepping one knee forward.

Common Mistakes

  • Flaring elbows out
  • Sagging hips
  • Moving shoulders
  • Incomplete extension

When to Avoid

  • Acute shoulder impingement
  • Elbow tendonitis
  • Lower back instability

Flexibility Needed

  • Shoulder flexion to 150 degrees
  • Wrist extension comfort

Build Up First

  • Basic plank hold
  • Familiarity with TRX straps

Also known as

TRX Kneeling Tricep Extension, Suspension Strap Skull Crusher, Kneeling Tricep Press, Suspension Trainer Tricep Extension

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