Triceps with a Band

Photo courtesy T.Juco

Tanks, Tees and Bathing suits – all signs of warmer weather and bare arms. This move of the week tones your triceps (back of the arms) using a band for some variety. Stand tall with one end of the band in your right hand by your ear and the rest of the band falling behind you. With your left hand reach behind you and grab the free end of the band at the small of your back until the band is taut. Keeping your right elbow pointed forward, straighten your right arm overhead, hold for a second or two and then slowly return to the start position. Do 15-20 reps on each side.

Notes: Keep your knees soft, pelvis tucked under and abs engaged to protect the lower back. Keep breathing throughout and don’t allow your shoulders to ride up around your ears.

Easier: If you have back issues, do this exercise in a seated position. With a band, you can adjust the tensile strength making it easier or lighter by increasing the length of the band used for the exercise. Just make sure there is no slack or you really won’t be working anything. You can also use a thinner diameter band to make this easier. Do fewer reps.

Harder: Use a thicker diameter band.  Shorten the length of the band you are using. Do more reps.