Upper Arms Exercise · Dumbbell

Dumbbell Tricep Kickback With Stork Stance form demonstration - targeted for Triceps Upper Arms workouts

Dumbbell Tricep Kickback With Stork Stance

Standing on one leg while performing a kickback adds a balance component on top of the usual triceps isolation, which forces the core and hip to stabilize the whole set. It's more of a stability-and-conditioning variation than a way to load the triceps heavier than a normal, bench-supported kickback would allow.

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Also known as: Db Tricep Kickback With Stork Stance, Dumbell Tricep Kickback With Stork Stance

Category
Upper Arms
Equipment
Dumbbell
Target
Triceps

Exercise reference published by PlanWorkouts; see our editorial standards.

How to Do the Dumbbell Tricep Kickback With Stork Stance

  1. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, holding a dumbbell in your right hand.
  2. Soften your knees and hinge forward from the hips, keeping your back flat.
  3. Raise your right elbow up alongside your torso, bent to roughly 90 degrees.
  4. Straighten your right arm out behind you, squeezing your triceps at full extension.
  5. Hold briefly, then lower the dumbbell back down slowly to the start.
  6. Repeat for the desired number of reps, then switch to the other side.

Quick Exercise Facts

Movement Type Targeted (Isolation)
Equipment Dumbbell
Main Muscle Triceps
Supporting Muscles Shoulders

Target Muscle Activation

Triceps — Main Target
Shoulders — Supporting
Stabilizers — Balance & Core

Recommended Sets & Reps by Goal

Build Muscle & Size 3 – 4 Sets × 10 – 15 Reps

Moderate weight · 60s rest

Tone & Shape 3 Sets × 15 – 25 Reps

Lighter weight · 30–45s rest

Form & Control 2 – 3 Sets × 12 – 15 Reps

Lower slowly for 3 seconds · 60s rest

Technique & Form Tips

Focus on controlled elbow extension while keeping your upper arms fixed in the position required by your specific variation, such as a pushdown or overhead extension. Manage your range of motion based on your own comfort during both flexion and extension.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Elbow migration: Keep the upper arm stationary to prevent the movement from turning into a different exercise.
  • Inconsistent elbow tracking: Follow the intended path for your elbows to ensure they do not excessively flare outward.
  • Forcing the end position: Straighten and bend the elbow through a controlled, comfortable range without snapping into the end position.

How to Breathe During This Exercise

Breathe continuously, matching your inhale and exhale to the pace of your repetitions.

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Comfort and Control

Choose a load and range you can control. Stop if the movement causes pain. If discomfort persists, stop and ask a qualified professional about an appropriate exercise and range.

General guidance: Mayo Clinic on weight-training technique. Follow the specific movement steps above for this variation.

Muscles Worked

The Dumbbell Tricep Kickback With Stork Stance mainly targets your Triceps, with your Shoulders helping support the movement.

More Upper Arms Exercises

More Triceps Exercises

Equipment Alternatives

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

FAQ

What muscles does the Dumbbell Tricep Kickback With Stork Stance work?
The Dumbbell Tricep Kickback With Stork Stance mainly works your triceps. Your shoulders also works to help support and steady your body. Using good, smooth form makes sure you work the right muscles and avoid unnecessary strain on your joints.
What equipment do I need for the Dumbbell Tricep Kickback With Stork Stance?
You do the Dumbbell Tricep Kickback With Stork Stance with a dumbbell. Make sure your equipment is set up safely before starting. If you work out at home or have limited gear, check out our alternative exercises below.
What form mistake should I watch for on the Dumbbell Tricep Kickback With Stork Stance?
One mistake to watch for is elbow migration: Keep the upper arm stationary to prevent the movement from turning into a different exercise.. Use a comfortable range and a controlled return; reduce the load if you cannot maintain the demonstrated setup.
How many sets and reps should I perform on the Dumbbell Tricep Kickback With Stork Stance?
To tone and grow muscle, do 3 to 4 sets of 10 to 15 smooth reps with 60 seconds of rest, focusing on a full stretch and squeezing the muscle at the top of each rep.
What's a good alternative to the Dumbbell Tricep Kickback With Stork Stance?
The Body-Up trains your triceps with body weight and a similar movement pattern. Review its form guide before substituting it, since setup and range of motion can differ.
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