Exercise 0860 · REF HEJ6DIX

Cable Kickback exercise animation

Cable Kickback

Category
Upper Arms
Equipment
Cable
Target
Triceps

The cable kickback keeps constant tension on the triceps through the full extension, including the fully locked-out position where a dumbbell kickback would otherwise go slack. Bent over with the elbow pinned high, this isolates the triceps almost as strictly as a concentration curl isolates the biceps. It's a finisher exercise more than a primary builder, usually programmed after heavier pressing or pushdown work.

How to Do the Cable Kickback

  1. Stand facing a cable machine with your feet shoulder-width apart.
  2. Hold the cable handle with your right hand and step back to create tension in the cable.
  3. Bend your knees slightly and hinge forward at the hips, keeping your back straight.
  4. Keep your upper arm close to your body and your elbow bent at a 90-degree angle.
  5. Extend your forearm backward, straightening your arm fully.
  6. Pause for a moment, then slowly return to the starting position.
  7. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions, then switch sides.

Muscles Worked

The Cable Kickback primarily targets the Triceps, with Shoulders as the primary synergist muscle group.

More Upper Arms Exercises

More Triceps Exercises

Equipment Alternatives

Don't have cable? These target the same triceps with different equipment.

FAQ

What muscles does the Cable Kickback work?
The Cable Kickback primarily targets the triceps, with the shoulders as the main supporting muscle group.
What equipment do I need for the Cable Kickback?
The Cable Kickback is done with a cable.
What's a good alternative to the Cable Kickback?
If you don't have access to a cable, the Bench Dip (knees Bent) targets the same triceps using body weight instead.