Seated Dumbbell Overhead Extension
Learn how to perform Seated Dumbbell Overhead Extension, a Arms exercise, with setup, breathing and common mistakes.
Seated Dumbbell Overhead Extension · Preview
Setup
Sit on a bench, hold a dumbbell overhead, and bring your elbows beside your ears. Brace your core to keep your torso tall and your ribs down.
Start phase
Bend your elbows and lower the dumbbell slowly behind your head. Keep your upper arms steady until your triceps lengthen fully.
End phase
Extend your elbows with your triceps and lift the dumbbell. Finish by pressing through the triceps without shrugging.
Target muscles
Think of pressing the dumbbell up with your triceps. The seated position limits lower-back momentum, making it easier to keep the work in your arms.
Common mistakes
Overarching your lower back makes it fatigue before your triceps. Prioritize a tall torso and consistent elbow width over weight.
Breathing
Inhale as you lower and exhale as you lift. Keep your core braced while breathing.
Coach tip
Even seated, firm feet on the floor improve torso stability. Reduce the range as soon as your shoulders become uncomfortable.
