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Parallel Bar Dip (Triceps): starting position Parallel Bar Dip (Triceps): end position

Dips · Triceps

Parallel Bar Dip (Triceps)

A dips exercise that works the triceps. Beginner level, using bodyweight.

BeginnerBodyweightHomeParkGym

Muscles worked

PrimaryTriceps
SecondaryChest, Shoulders

Triceps, chest, and shoulder.

Setup and loading

Upright torso for more triceps.

How to do the parallel bar dip (triceps) step by step

  1. Get up on the parallel bars with your arms locked out.
  2. Lower until your elbows go past 90 degrees.
  3. Press until your arms are straight.

Form cues

  • No swinging
  • Shoulders down

Common mistakes

  • Going too deep with shoulder pain
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Sets and reps for your goal

Hypertrophy

3-4 x 8-12 · rest 60-90 s

3-4 sets of 6-12 reps (up to 15-20 on isolation exercises) at 65-80% of your max. Rest 1 to 2 minutes.

Get close to failure (0-3 reps in reserve) and control the lowering for 2-3 seconds. Accumulate 10-20 sets per muscle per week.

Max Strength

4-5 x 3-6 · rest 2-3 min

3-6 sets of 1-6 reps at 80-90% of your max (1RM). Rest 2 to 5 minutes.

Leave 1-3 reps in reserve. If your technique breaks down, lower the weight: strength is built with good reps.

A guide for healthy adults. Adjust the load to your level and see a professional if you have an injury.

Check your form

Film yourself from the side or ask someone to watch, then tick what you get right.

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Sports it suits

Gear for this exercise

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Variations and similar exercises

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