Arms · Isolation

V-Bar Cable Triceps Pushdown

A triceps isolation exercise using a V-bar attachment for a neutral grip that targets the lateral and medial triceps heads. The rigid bar lets you push more weight than a rope, while the angled grip keeps the wrists comfortable doing it. It is the strength-leaning member of the pushdown family, best placed early in an arm session while you are fresh.

By Macros Inc Team Verified by Alex Dedmon Updated August 2026

Beginner Cable Isolation Push
v-bar-cable-triceps-pushdown-poster
  • Level Beginner
  • Equipment Cable
  • Primary Muscles Triceps
  • Movement Isolation Push

Demonstration

Watch the Form Demo

Technique

How to Do the V-Bar Cable Triceps Pushdown

  1. Attach a V-bar to a high pulley and grip it with palms facing each other.
  2. Stand tall with a slight forward lean, elbows pinned to your sides.
  3. Push the bar down until your arms are fully straight.
  4. Squeeze the triceps hard at lockout for a beat.
  5. Let the forearms rise under control until just past parallel with the floor.
  6. Keep your wrists locked straight throughout.

Anatomy

Muscles Worked

arms
Primary muscles
Triceps

Do This

Form Cues

  • Keep the palms facing each other on the V-bar.
  • Pin the elbows to your sides throughout.
  • Lock out fully and squeeze for a beat.
  • Push straight down through the bar, not forward. The line of force should run beside your body.

Avoid This

Common Mistakes

  • Letting the elbows travel forward at the bottom.
  • Leaning over the bar so body weight does the work.
  • Stopping short of lockout, where most of the triceps contraction happens.
  • Riding the bar down with bodyweight through hunched shoulders instead of extending at the elbows.

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