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  7. Cable Single Arm Triceps Pushdown with Rope Attachment

Exercise guide

Cable Single Arm Triceps Pushdown with Rope Attachment

  • Intermediate
  • Isolation
  • Rep-based
  • Shoulders
  • Upper arms

This unilateral isolation exercise targets all three heads of the triceps, allowing for a greater range of motion and improved mind-muscle connection compared to bilateral versions. Using a rope attachment facilitates a neutral grip and a more intense peak contraction at the bottom of the movement.

Reviewed by the Crucible team · Updated June 2026

Watch the Cable Single Arm Triceps Pushdown with Rope Attachment demonstrationGuided video and your full workout live in the Crucible app.

Muscles worked

Primary

  • Triceps

Secondary

  • Biceps
  • Forearms

Equipment

  • Cable
  • Rope

Setup

  1. Set the cable pulley to the highest position and attach a rope handle.
  2. Grasp one side of the rope with a neutral grip (palm facing your midline).
  3. Stand facing the machine with feet shoulder-width apart and a slight forward lean from the hips.
  4. Tuck your working elbow firmly against your side with the forearm parallel to the floor.

How to do it

  1. Exhale and extend your arm downward until the elbow is fully locked out.
  2. At the bottom of the rep, slightly rotate your wrist outward to maximize the contraction.
  3. Inhale and slowly control the weight back up to the starting position until the forearm is just above parallel.
  4. Maintain a controlled tempo, focusing on the squeeze at the bottom and a slow return.

Form checklist

  • Keep the upper arm stationary and pinned to your ribcage throughout the set.
  • Avoid using your shoulder or leaning your body weight into the cable to move the weight.
  • Maintain a neutral wrist position to avoid unnecessary joint strain.
  • Keep your core braced and shoulders pulled back to prevent rounding forward.

Pro tips

  • Focus on 'pushing through the pinky' side of your hand to better engage the lateral head of the triceps.
  • Squeeze the triceps hard at the bottom as if you are trying to point your thumb away from your body for a peak contraction.

Make it harder

  • Add a 3-second isometric hold at the point of maximum contraction (bottom of the movement).
  • Implement a 4-second eccentric (upward) phase to increase time under tension.

Frequently asked

What muscles does the cable single arm triceps pushdown with rope attachment work?
The cable single arm triceps pushdown with rope attachment primarily targets the triceps, and also works the biceps and forearms as secondary muscles.
What equipment do you need for the cable single arm triceps pushdown with rope attachment?
The cable single arm triceps pushdown with rope attachment uses cable and rope.
Is the cable single arm triceps pushdown with rope attachment good for beginners?
The cable single arm triceps pushdown with rope attachment is rated intermediate. Build a base with simpler variations first, then progress to it with light load and strict form.

Related exercises

  • Arm Double CrossoverIntermediate · biceps, deltoids, and triceps
  • Aztec Push UpIntermediate · pectorals, serratus anterior, and triceps
  • Band Bent Over One Arm Neutral Grip KickbackBeginner · triceps
  • Band High Pulley Overhead Triceps ExtensionIntermediate · triceps

Train this with a plan, not guesswork

Crucible builds the cable single arm triceps pushdown with rope attachment into a precise program around your body, equipment, location, and time.

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