Cable Triceps Pushdown
Elbows pinned to your sides, push down until your arms are straight, slow return.
How to do it →Cable Triceps Pushdown vs Close-Grip Press-up
Both train your triceps. Here's how they differ, and when to pick each one.
Close-Grip Press-up
Hands under your shoulders, elbows brush your sides as you lower.
How to do it →Side by side
| Cable Triceps Pushdown | Close-Grip Press-up | |
|---|---|---|
| Kit | Cable | Bodyweight |
| Main muscles | Triceps | Triceps |
| Also works | Forearms | Chest, Front Delts, Core |
| Bench needed | No | No |
| One side at a time | No | No |
| Works at home | Gym only | Yes, no kit |
| Starting load | Around 15 kg | Your bodyweight |
How each one feels
Cable Triceps Pushdown
- Tuck your elbows into your sides.
- Push the handle down until your arms are straight and squeeze.
- Let it rise slowly back to about chest height, elbows staying put.
Watch out for: Elbows drifting forward so your shoulders take over.
Close-Grip Press-up
- Lower your chest towards your hands, elbows brushing your sides.
- Stop just above the floor.
- Push back up until your arms are straight.
Watch out for: Elbows flaring out.
Cable Triceps Pushdown: pros and cons
- + Easy to progress: add a little weight or one more rep each week.
- + The machine guides the path, so it's beginner-friendly and steady.
- + Keeps tension on the muscle through the whole rep.
- + Really focused on your triceps.
- − Needs a gym, and the station might be taken at busy times.
Close-Grip Press-up: pros and cons
- + No kit needed, so you can do it anywhere.
- + Also works your chest and front delts.
- − Harder to add weight in small steps as you get stronger.
- − Can be awkward if your wrist needs looking after.
Which should you pick?
- Pick Cable Triceps Pushdown if you want smooth, steady tension and easy weight changes.
- Pick Close-Grip Press-up if you train at home, travel a lot, or want something you can do anywhere.
- Close-Grip Press-up needs no kit, so it's great at home or when the gym's packed.
- Honestly? Both work. The best one is the one you'll do consistently and add a little to each week.
Not sure which suits you? Your Gyde picks for you, then swaps it when you outgrow it.
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