Kettlebell Overhead Triceps Extension

A beginner strength exercise for the triceps, shoulders and abs, done with a kettlebell.

Movement guide

Kettlebell Overhead Triceps Extension

Demand · source-assignedEasy (unreviewed)

Equipment requiredA kettlebell

Muscle focusTriceps · Shoulders · Abs

Gets into position, then repeats the movement. Technical checks passed; qualified exercise review is pending.

Watch it bigger, and flip through similar moves, in the studio.Open in the studio

Make it easier or harder

Start where you can move well, then step up.

Easier option

This is already one of the gentlest options for these muscles.

This move

Kettlebell Overhead Triceps Extension demonstrated on the 3D figure

3D demoKettlebell Overhead Triceps ExtensionBeginner · A kettlebell

Beginner grade (source-assigned).

Harder option

Overhead cable triceps extension demonstrated on the 3D figure

3D demoOverhead cable triceps extensionIntermediate · A cable machine

Similar move, intermediate grade.

Imported reference · editorial review pending. Clinical review is pending.

This entry comes from an external exercise database. Its instructions and difficulty have not completed our editorial or qualified clinical review.

How to move

Stand with your feet hip-width apart, holding a kettlebell by the horns with both hands. Press it overhead until your arms are extended, with the bell hanging behind your hands.
Brace your abdominals and keep your upper arms vertical and close to your head. This is your starting position.
Bend at the elbows to lower the kettlebell behind your head, going as far as your shoulder mobility allows without your elbows flaring outward.
Extend your elbows to press the kettlebell back to the starting position, keeping your upper arms still throughout.
Keep your ribcage down and avoid arching your lower back as you extend.

Practice and cautions

No dose has been assigned. Any timing or repetition examples in the imported instructions are source examples, not an individualized recommendation.

Imported community instructions and difficulty labels have not been independently reviewed for technique or individual suitability. Equipment labels may include additions inferred from the setup text; check the instructions for the exact support or alternatives. Stop for sharp or increasing pain, numbness or tingling; seek qualified guidance for symptoms, unfamiliar equipment or advanced skills.

Add to a routine Log a session

Sources and review status

Sources support the educational description; they do not establish that this exercise is suitable for you.

Free Exercise DB · community text ↗
Unlicense · Free Exercise DB contributors; derived from wrkout/exercises.json. Text import; no photographs or media. · Revision f00c92c7dcf1216a928a52c3706c7ce8e2f71ed5

No variation is labeled clinically validated.

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What it works

Muscles

Main: Triceps. Also: Shoulders, Abs.

Equipment

A kettlebell

Level

Beginner (source-assigned, not yet reviewed). See the easier and harder options above.

Similar moves

Kettlebell Halo with Overhead ExtensionIntermediate · A kettlebell

Cable incline overhead extension demonstrated on the 3D figure

3D demoCable incline overhead extensionIntermediate · A cable machine + A bench or box

Cable lying triceps extension demonstrated on the 3D figure

3D demoCable lying triceps extensionIntermediate · A cable machine + A bench or box

Decline dumbbell triceps extension demonstrated on the 3D figure

3D demoDecline dumbbell triceps extensionIntermediate · A dumbbell + A bench or box

Decline EZ-bar triceps extension demonstrated on the 3D figure

3D demoDecline EZ-bar triceps extensionIntermediate · EZ curl bar + A bench or box

Dumbbell skull crusher (lying triceps extension) demonstrated on the 3D figure

3D demoDumbbell skull crusher (lying triceps extension)Intermediate · A dumbbell + A bench or box

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Questions people ask

What muscles does the Kettlebell Overhead Triceps Extension work?

Mainly the triceps, with help from the shoulders and abs.

What equipment do I need for the Kettlebell Overhead Triceps Extension?

A kettlebell.

Is the Kettlebell Overhead Triceps Extension good for beginners?

It is graded beginner, so it suits most people starting out. The grade comes from the source database and has not been independently reviewed. When it feels easy, try the Overhead cable triceps extension.

How do I make the Kettlebell Overhead Triceps Extension harder?

Progress to the Overhead cable triceps extension, or add load, range or slower lowering once your form is solid.