Tricep Dip

The tricep dip keeps the torso upright (unlike the chest dip which leans forward), placing more emphasis on the triceps. It is a highly effective compound tricep exercise.

Intermediate 💪 Triceps Compound Push
3
Sets
8–15
Reps
90 sec
Rest
Compound
Type
🏋️ Bodyweight🏋️ Dip Bars
Tricep Dip — start and finish positionsSTARTFINISH
Bodyweight
Triceps Intermediate Compound
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Muscles Worked

Learn more in the Triceps training guide →

Primary
Triceps
Secondary
Chest
Front Delts
Highlighted muscles

How To Perform

  1. 1 Support on parallel bars with arms extended.
  2. 2 Keep torso upright — minimal forward lean.
  3. 3 Lower until elbows reach 90 degrees.
  4. 4 Press back up to full arm extension.

Form Cues

  • ✓ Upright torso = more triceps.
  • ✓ Keep elbows close to the body.

Common Mistakes

  • ✗ Leaning too far forward (this becomes a chest dip).
  • ✗ Going past 90 degrees with the elbow.
💡 Professor Splits Says:

Progressive overload is the engine of muscle growth. Track your weights and aim to add small increments weekly. For Tricep Dip, this means gradually increasing load, volume (sets × reps), or decreasing rest periods over time.

Exercise Alternatives

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Where This Exercise Fits

FAQ

How many sets of Tricep Dip should I do?▾
3 sets of 8–15 reps is a solid starting point. Adjust based on your training frequency and overall weekly volume for triceps. Beginners should start with the lower end; advanced trainees can push toward the upper range.
What muscles does Tricep Dip target?▾
Tricep Dip primarily targets the Triceps. Secondary muscles include Chest, Front Delts.
Is Tricep Dip good for beginners?▾
Tricep Dip is rated intermediate. Beginners should build foundational strength first with simpler movements.
How much rest between sets?▾
For Tricep Dip, 90 sec of rest between sets is recommended. Compound exercises require more recovery — longer rests (2–3 min) allow better performance on the next set.