Train Fitness has rebranded to Motra. Learn More

Video Coming Soon

We're working on adding video demonstrations for this exercise.

Suspension Trainer Tricep Kickback

Intermediate
Home Friendly

A suspension isolation exercise targeting the triceps through elbow extension while facing the anchor; builds arm strength and core stability using bodyweight resistance.

About Exercise

Equipment

Suspension Trainer

Difficulty

2/5 • Intermediate

Primary Muscle Groups

Triceps

Secondary Muscles

Shoulders, Abs, Forearms

Accessory Muscles

Traps

Popularity Score

7

Goals

Strength
Hypertrophy

Training Style

Functional Training

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

No

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Small

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Triceps

10/10

Long Head, Lateral Head, Medial Head

Shoulders

4/10

Rear Delts

Abs

3/10

Rectus Abdominis

Forearms

3/10

Flexors

Traps

2/10

Lower Traps

Programming

Typical Rep Range

8-15 reps

Rest Between Sets

60-90 seconds

How to Perform

Stand facing the anchor point holding handles with palms facing back. Lean back to create tension, keeping elbows bent at 90 degrees and tucked tight to the ribs.

  1. Brace your core and maintain a straight body line.
  2. Press handles down and back to extend elbows fully.
  3. Squeeze triceps hard at the peak of contraction.
  4. Lower yourself back to the start position with control.
  5. Keep elbows pinned to your sides throughout the movement.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Elbows pinned to ribs
  • Body like a plank
  • Squeeze triceps
  • Shoulders down

Breathing

Exhale as you extend your arms; inhale as you return to the starting position.

Tempo

2-0-2

Range of Motion

From a 90-degree elbow bend to full arm extension.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Maintain a neutral spine to protect the lower back.
  • Ensure the anchor point is secure before starting.
  • Stop if you feel sharp pain in the elbows.

Spotting

Not recommended; step forward to reduce resistance if needed.

Common Mistakes

  • Flaring elbows out
  • Using momentum to swing
  • Arching the lower back
  • Shrugging shoulders

When to Avoid

  • Acute elbow tendinitis
  • Shoulder impingement
  • Recent upper body injury

Flexibility Needed

  • Shoulder extension to 45 degrees
  • Wrist flexibility for grip

Build Up First

  • Basic plank hold
  • Familiarity with TRX rows

Also known as

TRX Tricep Kickback, Suspension Tricep Pressdown, Strap Kickback, TRX Kickback

Found this helpful?

Share your thoughts or help us improve this guide.

Hero Image

Master your movement.

Experience automatic exercise detection and rep counting - powered by the motion of your Apple Watch.

We use cookies to enhance your browsing experience, serve personalized content, and analyze our traffic. By clicking 'Accept All', you consent to our use of cookies.