A cable pushdown using an underhand grip on a straight or EZ bar, a triceps isolation variation that also challenges grip and wrist control.
Primary muscles
Secondary muscles
This information is general fitness guidance, not medical advice. Stop if you feel pain and consult a qualified professional.
Main muscles working (thicker lines)
Attach a straight or EZ bar to a high pulley, grip it underhand at shoulder width and stand tall with elbows at your sides.
Start with forearms about parallel to the floor.
Extend the elbows to push the bar down to the thighs.
Squeeze the triceps at full extension.
Return under control.
Breathing: Exhale as you push down, inhale as the bar rises.
Wrists neutral
Elbows pinned
Lighter than regular pushdowns
Bending the wrists back
Going too heavy
Elbows drifting forward
Use a lighter load than overhand pushdowns to keep the wrists in a neutral line.