The 5 Best Tricep Exercises for Size & Strength (Backed by Science)

Discover the top five science-backed tricep exercises for building maximum strength and size, including the close grip bench press, JM press, overhead cable extension, rope push-down, and board press. Learn how to train all three heads of the tricep — long, lateral, and medial — with proper technique, programming recommendations, and progression strategies. Whether you’re a powerlifter looking to add plates to your bench press or an athlete chasing bigger arms, this complete tricep training guide from THIRST Gym covers everything you need.

Incline Tate Press

Master the incline tate press, a powerful tricep exercise popularized by Dave Tate that targets the medial and long heads of the triceps through unique constant-tension mechanics. This underutilized dumbbell movement serves as an exceptional bench press accessory, helping lifters break through plateaus by strengthening the lockout portion of their pressing power. Learn proper setup, execution, and programming strategies to incorporate this effective tricep builder into your strength training routine for maximum muscle development and pressing performance.