Best Long Head Tricep Exercises

The long head of the triceps muscle is one of the three parts of the triceps brachii. It's responsible for the 'horse shoe' shape at the back of the arm and is crucial for overall upper arm strength and aesthetics. Targeting this area effectively can lead to impressive arm growth and improved functionality. Let's explore some of the best exercises that isolate and engage the long head of the triceps.

The Triceps Head That Builds Most Arm Size đź’Ş | Long Head Training Guide
The Triceps Head That Builds Most Arm Size đź’Ş | Long Head Training Guide

Before diving into the exercises, it's important to understand the long head's role. It's the outermost head of the triceps and extends from the elbow to the scapula, assisted by the latissimus dorsi. It's involved in arm extension and adduction, with active engagement during overhead movements. Therefore, exercises emphasizing these movements can optimally target the long head.

a man with headphones on holding his hands up in the air while looking at something
a man with headphones on holding his hands up in the air while looking at something

Best Exercises for the Long Head of the Triceps

The following exercises are designed to maximize long head activation while offering a varied approach to your workout routine.

Long Head Tricep Exercises
Long Head Tricep Exercises

Overhead Dumbbell Extensions

Overhead dumbbell extensions isolate the long head of the triceps by placing the elbows at a 90-degree angle, meaning other muscles like the chest and shoulders don't assist as much as in other exercises.

Grow your triceps by training all three heads. 💪🔥
Grow your triceps by training all three heads. 💪🔥

To perform, sit on a bench or chair, raise your arms with a dumbbell in each hand, palms facing each other, and elbows bent at 90 degrees. Slowly extend your arms overhead, keeping a slight bend in your elbows, and lower back down. This movement effectively targets your tricep's long head.

Skull Crushers

Skull crushers, also known as overhead tricep extensions, are another excellent exercise for long head development. They're similar to overhead dumbbell extensions but are often performed with a barbell or an EZ bar for added resistance.

Triceps Workout đź’Ş
Triceps Workout đź’Ş

Lie on a flat bench, hold the barbell with a wider-than-shoulder-width grip, and lower it behind your head until your forearms are parallel to the floor. Then, lift the weight back up to the starting position. This exercise engages the long head due to the increased range of motion at the elbow.

publics blocks help in workout routine

Adding resistance bands or使用 blocked gym equipment into your workout routine can enhance long head activation. Here's how:

11 Best Long Head Triceps Exercises for Meaty Arms
11 Best Long Head Triceps Exercises for Meaty Arms

Resistance Band Overhead Extension

Using a resistance band allows for constant tension, which can lead to more muscle activation. Anchor a resistance band to something secure above you, grab the handles with both hands, and extend your arms overhead. Keep your elbows close to your ears and return to the starting position.

Tricep Long Head TARGET! The ONLY Dumbbell Extension Form You Need ✅  Stop wasting your time with bad form! 🙅‍♂️ This is the number one mistake people make with the Dumbbell Overhead Tricep Extension (or Tricep Kickback) that is killing their arm growth. The triceps make up two-thirds of your arm mass, so if you want bigger, more defined arms—especially targeting the tricep long head—you need this simple form fix.  Watch closely for the correct elbow position, full range of motion, and how to... Gym Workout Animation, Triceps Kickback, Triceps Extension, Workout Gym Routine, Gym Routine, Tricep Extension, Tricep Workout, Tricep Exercises, Triceps Exercises
Tricep Long Head TARGET! The ONLY Dumbbell Extension Form You Need ✅ Stop wasting your time with bad form! 🙅‍♂️ This is the number one mistake people make with the Dumbbell Overhead Tricep Extension (or Tricep Kickback) that is killing their arm growth. The triceps make up two-thirds of your arm mass, so if you want bigger, more defined arms—especially targeting the tricep long head—you need this simple form fix. Watch closely for the correct elbow position, full range of motion, and how to... Gym Workout Animation, Triceps Kickback, Triceps Extension, Workout Gym Routine, Gym Routine, Tricep Extension, Tricep Workout, Tricep Exercises, Triceps Exercises
The Best Long Head Tricep Exercises for Mass & Hypertrophy
The Best Long Head Tricep Exercises for Mass & Hypertrophy
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3 Exercises for your Long Head of Triceps! Add it to your list!
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Tricep Heads Explained: Exercises for All Three
Tricep Heads Explained: Exercises for All Three
an exercise poster showing the different exercises to do for your body's core muscles
an exercise poster showing the different exercises to do for your body's core muscles

This exercise targets the long head while providing a constant resistance that traditional weights may not offer, making it an excellent addition to your routine.

Blocked Weighted Dips

Performing weighted dips with your triceps blocked behind a support, like a dip station or parallel bars, shifts the emphasis from your chest and shoulders to your triceps, specifically the long head.

Set a supported dip station to block your triceps, and position a weight (dumbbell, weight plate, or belt) around your waist. Perform dips as usual, keeping your elbows close to your sides and focused on engaging your triceps throughout the movement.

Incorporating these exercises and techniques into your workout regime will not only lead to impressive triceps development but also enhance your overall upper arm strength and functionality. Don't forget to focus on progressive overload and proper form to maximize long head engagement and growth.

Whether you're a gym regular or just starting your fitness journey, these exercises can help you achieve your triceps goals. So, grab a resistance band, a dumbbell, or hit the gym and start targeting your long head today! Never stop challenging yourself and Watch your arms grow stronger and more defined with each workout."