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"Maximizing Muscle Growth: Is the Bicep Tricep Superset the Ultimate Workout Technique?"

  • Writer: Jason "Coach" Tate
    Jason "Coach" Tate
  • Jul 16, 2024
  • 3 min read


A bicep and tricep superset involves performing one exercise targeting the biceps immediately followed by another targeting the triceps, with minimal to no rest between the two. This type of superset is efficient for building arm strength and muscle endurance, and it also saves time in the gym. Here are some effective bicep and tricep superset combinations, along with tips for proper execution:


Superset Combinations


Dumbbell Bicep Curl + Tricep Dips


Dumbbell Bicep Curl


How to Perform: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, holding a dumbbell in each hand with palms facing forward. Curl the weights up to shoulder level, squeezing the biceps at the top.


Reps: 10-12


Tricep Dips


How to Perform: Use parallel bars or a bench. Lower your body until your elbows are at a 90-degree angle, then push back up to the starting position.


Reps: 10-12


Barbell Curl + Skull Crushers


Barbell Curl


How to Perform: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, holding a barbell with an underhand grip. Curl the barbell up to shoulder level, keeping elbows close to your body.


Reps: 8-10


Skull Crushers (Lying Tricep Extensions)


How to Perform: Lie on a bench with a barbell or EZ curl bar. Lower the bar to your forehead by bending the elbows, then extend back to the starting position.


Reps: 8-10


Hammer Curl + Overhead Tricep Extension


Hammer Curl


How to Perform: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, holding a dumbbell in each hand with palms facing your body. Curl the weights up while maintaining a neutral grip.


Reps: 10-12


Overhead Tricep Extension


How to Perform: Stand or sit with a dumbbell held with both hands above your head. Lower the dumbbell behind your head by bending your elbows, then extend your arms back to the starting position.


Reps: 10-12


Cable Bicep Curl + Tricep Pushdown


Cable Bicep Curl


How to Perform: Stand facing a cable machine with a low pulley attachment. Hold the handle with an underhand grip and curl it towards your shoulders.


Reps: 12-15


Tricep Pushdown


How to Perform: Stand facing a cable machine with a high pulley attachment. Hold the bar or rope with an overhand grip and push it down until your arms are fully extended.


Reps: 12-15


Tips for Effective Supersets


Minimal Rest:

Move quickly from the bicep exercise to the tricep exercise to maintain intensity and maximize muscle engagement.


Proper Form:

Focus on maintaining proper form throughout each exercise to prevent injury and ensure the targeted muscles are worked effectively.


Controlled Movements:

Perform each movement in a controlled manner, avoiding the use of momentum to lift the weights.


Breathing:

Exhale during the exertion phase (lifting or pushing) and inhale during the return phase.


Progressive Overload:

Gradually increase the weight or resistance to continue challenging your muscles and promoting growth.


Balanced Routine:

Ensure your overall workout routine is balanced, incorporating exercises for all major muscle groups to prevent imbalances and overtraining.


Sample Superset Workout Routine


Superset 1:

Dumbbell Bicep Curl: 10-12 reps

Tricep Dips: 10-12 reps

Rest: 60-90 seconds

Repeat: 3 sets


Superset 2:

Barbell Curl: 8-10 reps

Skull Crushers: 8-10 reps

Rest: 60-90 seconds

Repeat: 3 sets


Superset 3:

Hammer Curl: 10-12 reps

Overhead Tricep Extension: 10-12 reps

Rest: 60-90 seconds

Repeat: 3 sets


Incorporating these bicep and tricep supersets into your workout routine can lead to improved arm strength, muscle endurance, and overall upper-body development.

 
 
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