Upper Arms Exercise · Weighted

Weighted Triceps Dip On High Parallel Bars form demonstration - targeted for Triceps Upper Arms workouts

Weighted Triceps Dip On High Parallel Bars

High parallel bars allow a deeper dip than a standard set of dip bars, extending the range of motion and the stretch on the triceps and chest at the bottom before adding weight on top of that. It's a more demanding setup than a standard dip station for that reason alone, even before any load is added. Control the descent — the extra depth is exactly where a rushed rep turns into shoulder strain.

Go to the movement steps

Also known as: Weighted Tricep Dip On High Parallel Bars

Category
Upper Arms
Equipment
Weighted
Target
Triceps

Exercise reference published by PlanWorkouts; see our editorial standards.

How to Do the Weighted Triceps Dip On High Parallel Bars

  1. Position yourself between two parallel bars with your hands gripping the bars and your arms fully extended.
  2. Bend your elbows and lower your body until your upper arms are parallel to the floor.
  3. Pause briefly, then push through your palms to straighten your arms and return to the starting position.
  4. Repeat for your target rep goal, keeping your core engaged and avoiding any reliance on momentum.

Quick Exercise Facts

Movement Type Multi-Muscle (Compound)
Equipment Weighted
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.

Free Workout Plan Generator

Add the Weighted Triceps Dip On High Parallel Bars to Your Custom Workout Routine

Build a personalized, science-backed workout plan matching your training goals, equipment access, and schedule.

Build Workout Plan →

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 Weighted Triceps Dip On High Parallel Bars 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 weighted? These target the same triceps with different equipment.

FAQ

What muscles does the Weighted Triceps Dip On High Parallel Bars work?
The Weighted Triceps Dip On High Parallel Bars 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 Weighted Triceps Dip On High Parallel Bars?
You do the Weighted Triceps Dip On High Parallel Bars with a weighted. 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 Weighted Triceps Dip On High Parallel Bars?
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 Weighted Triceps Dip On High Parallel Bars?
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 Weighted Triceps Dip On High Parallel Bars?
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.
Community Q&A

Questions & Form Advice: Weighted Triceps Dip On High Parallel Bars

Ask questions about joint angles, pain-free cues, or program substitutions.

Have a question about form cues, joint angles, or want to read discussions from other athletes?

Browse Community Discussions →