Band Overhead Tricep Extension

The band overhead tricep extension is an isolation exercise that builds the back of the upper arm by pressing a resistance band overhead until the elbows lock out. Because the band gets harder as it stretches, the toughest part of every rep lands exactly where the triceps are strongest, at full extension, which makes it a smart finisher after heavy pressing work. What makes it worth programming? It loads the long head of the triceps, the portion that only stretches fully when the arms are overhead, and it does that without a single plate. Most lifters get the most out of it in the 12 to 20 rep range, taking two full seconds to lower the band behind the head before driving back up. Keep the elbows close to the ears the whole time. Letting them flare turns the movement into an awkward shoulder press and steals the tension the triceps are meant to absorb.