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Suspension Trainer Tricep Extension

Intermediate
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A suspension bodyweight exercise targeting the triceps to build upper arm strength and core stability; commonly scaled by adjusting body angle relative to the anchor point.

About Exercise

Equipment

Suspension Trainer

Difficulty

3/5 • Intermediate

Primary Muscle Groups

Triceps

Secondary Muscles

Shoulders, Chest, Forearms, Abs

Popularity Score

7

Goals

Strength
Hypertrophy
Stability

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

Chest

4/10

Mid Chest

Forearms

4/10

Flexors

Abs

3/10

Transverse Abdominis

Programming

Typical Rep Range

8-15 reps

Rest Between Sets

60-90 seconds

How to Perform

Stand facing away from the anchor point holding the handles with an overhand grip at shoulder height. Walk feet back to lean forward, extending arms fully while maintaining a rigid plank position.

  1. Brace core and glutes to maintain a straight line from head to heels.
  2. Bend elbows to lower body forward until hands are near the forehead.
  3. Keep elbows pointing forward and stationary throughout the movement.
  4. Press through palms to extend elbows back to the starting position.
  5. Squeeze triceps hard at the top without locking out abruptly.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Elbows in
  • Body like a plank
  • Move only the forearms
  • Ribs down

Breathing

Inhale as you lower your body, and exhale forcefully as you press back up.

Tempo

3-1-1

Range of Motion

Lower until thumbs graze the forehead or temples; extend until arms are fully straight.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Ensure anchor point is secure
  • Stop if acute elbow pain occurs
  • Adjust foot position to manage difficulty

Spotting

No spotter required; self-spot by stepping one foot forward if fatigue sets in.

Common Mistakes

  • Flaring elbows out
  • Sagging hips
  • Moving shoulders
  • Short range of motion

When to Avoid

  • Acute shoulder impingement
  • Elbow tendonitis
  • Recent wrist injury

Flexibility Needed

  • Shoulder flexion beyond 90 degrees
  • Wrist extension for grip

Build Up First

  • Proficiency in plank position
  • Basic understanding of elbow extension

Also known as

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

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