Having a set of well-developed arms is a highly desired physical attribute. And for good reason. Not only does it boost our confidence, but it also says a lot about our fitness level and dedication to the gym. So a tricep workout with dumbbells is a great workout routine to have in your wheelhouse!
How our upper arms look mostly depends on two things: being at a reasonable body fat level (so our muscles show), and having decent muscular development.
Tricep Function and Anatomy
The tricep is a muscle located on the backside of the upper arm. As its name suggests, the muscle has three heads – a medial, lateral, and long head. The medial and lateral heads originate from the humerus (upper arm bone), while the long head originates from the scapula.
All three heads insert into the elbow and work together to extend our elbows. But, because the long head also crosses the shoulder joint, it also contributes to arm adduction and shoulder stability.
Contrary to popular belief, the tricep is larger than the bicep and accounts for more than sixty percent of the upper arm volume. So, if you want to develop a set of impressive arms, you should give your triceps a lot of attention.
What You’ll Need For These Tricep Workouts With Dumbbells
The best thing about this tricep workout with dumbbells is that all you need is some space, your body, and a pair of dumbbells.
Well, having two sets of dumbbells is better, as some exercises will require heavier weights, while others will require lighter. For example, you can do an exercise like dumbbell extensions with a heavier dumbbell. But, come time to do a dumbbell tricep kickback, it’s better to pick a lighter weight.
So, for starters, you can get yourself a pair of 10 or 15-pound dumbbells, and a pair of 20 or 30-pound dumbbells. This should provide you with a lot of versatility and a rich choice of exercises.
Here is a good guide based on your strength level:
- Heavy Dumbbells: 15, 20, or 30 pound dumbbells
- Light Dumbbells: 5, 10, or 15 pound dumbbells
Tricep Workouts With Dumbbells
Here are some simple and effective tricep workouts you can do with nothing but a pair of dumbbells.
Dumbbell Extensions
The dumbbell extension can be performed sitting (as shown below), or standing. Both are equally effective.
Dumbbell to Use: Heavy Dumbbell
Dumbbell Kickbacks
These tricep dumbbell kickbacks can be performed with two dumbbells as shown, or just one.
Dumbbells to Use: Light Dumbells
Two Dumbbell Extensions
Thes dumbbell extensions can be performed sitting (as shown below), or standing. Both are equally effective.
Dumbbells to Use: Light Dumbbells
Some Important Considerations for Your Tricep Workout
A proper warm-up is critical because it helps boost your training performance, enables you to get in the mindset for effective training, and decreases the risk of injuries and aches. (1)
So, make sure to invest at least a few minutes before training to loosen are warm you muscles – the investment is well worth it in the long run.
Also, taking good care of your nutrition is the key to productive resistance training. The reason is, while proper training is vital, food is another crucial element.
Proper nutrition allows you to recover well between workouts, perform optimally, feel good, build muscle, and lose fat. Aside from that, having a varied diet full of unprocessed foods is essential for good health.
- Consume veggies of all sorts
- Get a good dose of protein every day (lean meats, poultry, fish, cottage cheese, etc.)
- Consume healthy fats (natural oils, avocado, whole eggs, nuts, seeds, etc.)
- Eat slow-digesting carbs that support recovery, cognition, and performance (brown rice, whole grains, etc.). Whole grains like whole wheat bread, quinoa, and oatmeal. These are the 3 best whole grains, as they are super healthy and tasty. (2)
The Importance of Hydration
Adequate hydration is also vital, as it significantly impacts your cognition, motivation, and athletic performance. So, make sure to drink water throughout the day, and especially before, during, and after training.
Whether it’s a tricep workout with dumbbells, or a chest workout at home, hydration must be a cornerstone of your fitness efforts. And it is often overlooked by even active fitness enthusiasts.
Click to see other dumbbell workouts.
David Williams
A diet and fitness enthusiast, David Williams is an ex-Army Airborne Ranger and Infantry soldier with decades of fitness and wellness experience. A West Point graduate with a degree in engineering, he focuses on technical research related to fitness, nutrition, and wellness. He loves the beach, and spending time with his wife and daughters.
References
- Contributors, W. M. D. E. (n.d.). Warm-up exercises: Do they improve performance and reduce injuries? WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/benefits-of-warmup-exercises
Elizabeth Laseter June 05, 2017. (n.d.). The 9 essential whole grain foods you need in your diet. Cooking Light. https://www.cookinglight.com/nutrition-101/essential-whole-grain-foods-you-need-your-diet
