Back to exercises
Stretchingbeginner

Tricep Side Stretch

How do you do a tricep side stretch?

A beginner stretching exercise done using just your bodyweight that mainly works the triceps, with help from the shoulders. Bring right arm across your body and over your left shoulder, holding your elbow with your left hand, until you feel a stretch in your tricep. Then repeat for your other arm.

Updated

Primary
Triceps
Secondary
Shoulders
Equipment
None
Level
beginner

Tricep Side Stretch demonstration

Tricep Side Stretch, starting position
Tricep Side Stretch, starting position
Tricep Side Stretch, finishing position
Tricep Side Stretch, finishing position

How to Perform

  1. 1Bring right arm across your body and over your left shoulder, holding your elbow with your left hand, until you feel a stretch in your tricep. Then repeat for your other arm.

Video Tutorial

Tips & Common Mistakes

  • •Focus on controlled movements rather than speed or momentum
  • •Maintain proper breathing - exhale during the exertion phase
  • •Start with lighter weight to master the form before progressing
  • •This is a great exercise for beginners - focus on form over reps

Muscles Worked

FrontFront view. Muscles worked: triceps; also shoulders
BackBack view. Muscles worked: triceps; also shoulders
TricepsShoulders

Exercise Details

Category
Stretching
Force
static
Mechanic
N/A
Level
beginner

Exercise Variations

At Home
Home workout modifications
Alternatives
Similar exercises
For Beginners
Easier modifications
Without Weights
Bodyweight options

Want workout programs?

Get structured workout plans using this exercise and more.

Browse Programs

Frequently Asked Questions

What muscles does Tricep Side Stretch work?

Tricep Side Stretch primarily targets the Triceps. It also works the Shoulders as secondary muscles.

What equipment do I need for Tricep Side Stretch?

Tricep Side Stretch requires no equipment - it's a bodyweight exercise.

Is Tricep Side Stretch suitable for beginners?

Yes, Tricep Side Stretch is suitable for beginners. It's classified as a beginner-level exercise.

Alternatives to Tricep Side Stretch

Substitute any of these when the equipment is taken or unavailable. They train the same primary muscles.

Overhead Triceps

Triceps

View exercise

Triceps Stretch

Triceps

View exercise