Triceps: Long vs Lateral vs Short Head
Our triceps have 3 different heads that we can target with specific training!
Our triceps brachii has 3 heads all with different origins:
- Long Head – Origin on infraglenoid tubercle of scapula
- Lateral Head – Origin on upper half and back of humerus
- Short Head – Origin on lower half and deep on humerus
Despite their separate origin they share the same insertion after the cross the elbow joint. This is important because both heads will extend the elbow joint! But based on their origins, the short and lateral heads only cross the elbow joint while the long head crosses the shoulder and elbow joint. Specifically, the long head crosses the back of the shoulder joint causing shoulder extension (pulling arm straight back).
This subtle distinction has a large effect on how we can effectively target each head of the triceps! Stay tuned for our favorite exercises for each one in order to grow your entire triceps optimally!