Upper Arms Exercise · Leverage Machine

Lever Overhand Triceps Dip form demonstration - targeted for Triceps Upper Arms workouts

Lever Overhand Triceps Dip

The overhand grip on this triceps dip machine changes the wrist and elbow angle compared to a neutral grip, shifting slightly more emphasis onto the triceps' outer head. The fixed path means the whole exercise comes down to elbow extension, without any chest or shoulder assistance sneaking in.

Go to the movement steps

Also known as: Lever Overhand Tricep Dip

Category
Upper Arms
Target
Triceps

Exercise reference published by PlanWorkouts; see our editorial standards.

How to Do the Lever Overhand Triceps Dip

  1. Set the machine to the appropriate height and secure your body in position.
  2. Grasp the handles with an overhand grip and position your body so that your arms are fully extended.
  3. Lower your body by bending your elbows, keeping your upper arms close to your sides.
  4. Continue lowering until your upper arms are parallel to the floor.
  5. Pause briefly, then push yourself back up to the starting position by extending your elbows.
  6. Execute the desired number of reps with smooth cadence and consistent focus on the triceps.

Quick Exercise Facts

Movement Type Multi-Muscle (Compound)
Equipment Leverage Machine
Main Muscle Triceps
Supporting Muscles Shoulders

Recommended Sets & Reps by Goal

Build Muscle 3 – 4 Sets × 8 – 12 Reps

Medium weight · 90–120s rest

Build Strength 4 – 5 Sets × 3 – 6 Reps

Heavy weight · 2–3 min rest (Calc 1RM)

Endurance & Stamina 2 – 3 Sets × 15 – 20 Reps

Light weight · 45–60s rest

Technique & Form Tips

Press by straightening the elbows while controlling the movement of the upper arms. Bench presses, push-ups and dips use different support points and shoulder positions; match the setup and range to the demonstrated variation.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Extreme elbow flare: Adjust the angle of your upper arms to find a comfortable position for your shoulders.
  • Using the wrong shoulder setup: Follow the specific support and shoulder movement shown. A bench-press setup does not apply unchanged to a push-up or dip.
  • Using momentum: Control the descent and ascent to focus on steady movement.

How to Breathe During This Exercise

Exhale during the pushing phase and inhale during the return.

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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 Lever Overhand Triceps Dip mainly targets your Triceps, with your Chest helping support the movement, along with your Shoulders.

More Upper Arms Exercises

More Triceps Exercises

Equipment Alternatives

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

FAQ

What muscles does the Lever Overhand Triceps Dip work?
The Lever Overhand Triceps Dip mainly works your triceps. It also helps strengthen your chest and shoulders. 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 Lever Overhand Triceps Dip?
You do the Lever Overhand Triceps Dip with a leverage machine. 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 Lever Overhand Triceps Dip?
One mistake to watch for is extreme elbow flare: Adjust the angle of your upper arms to find a comfortable position for your shoulders.. 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 Lever Overhand Triceps Dip?
To build muscle size, aim for 3 to 4 sets of 8 to 12 reps with 90 to 120 seconds of rest. To build pure strength, focus on 4 to 5 sets of 3 to 6 heavier reps with 2 to 3 minutes of rest.
What's a good alternative to the Lever Overhand Triceps Dip?
The Bench Dip (knees Bent) 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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