An isolation exercise targeting the triceps muscles by extending the elbow against resistance. Common variations include overhead extensions and lying extensions, using dumbbells, barbells, or cables.
From 'tricep' (the three-headed arm muscle) + 'extension' (straightening movement). The terminology became standard as bodybuilding systematized exercise naming conventions in the 1960s-70s.
Your triceps make up about two-thirds of your upper arm mass, yet most people focus on biceps! Tricep extensions are crucial for anyone wanting bigger arms - the triceps are the primary driver of arm size, not the more visible biceps.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.