Muscles / Arms
Triceps brachii (triceps)
Arms · Upper body
How it works
| Origin | Infraglenoid tubercle (long head), posterior humerus (lateral and medial heads) |
|---|---|
| Insertion | Olecranon process of the ulna |
| Actions |
|
Anatomy reference: OpenStax Anatomy and Physiology (CC BY)
Coaching notes
Trained by every pressing movement; the long head also crosses the shoulder.
Say the muscle, not the group
Clients and interviewers both notice the difference between "triceps brachii" and a vague region name. Use the specific term and explain the action in plain language.
Best exercises for this muscle
| Exercise | Pattern | Equipment | Complexity | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wall push-up | Horizontal push | Bodyweight | 1/5 | Open |
| Incline push-up | Horizontal push | Bodyweight | 1/5 | Open |
| Band overhead press | Vertical push | Resistance band | 2/5 | Open |
| Chest press machine | Horizontal push | Machine | 2/5 | Open |
| Push-up | Horizontal push | Bodyweight | 3/5 | Open |
| Dumbbell shoulder press | Vertical push | Dumbbell | 3/5 | Open |
| Dumbbell bench press | Horizontal push | Dumbbell | 4/5 | Open |
| Barbell bench press | Horizontal push | Barbell | 5/5 | Open |
Also trains this muscle as a secondary mover
Seated machine shoulder pressLandmine pressBarbell overhead pressOverhead carry