Influence of hand grip in resistance-training exercises on the triceps brachii activation: A narrative review

Abstract

Introduction: When you perform an exercise to only one joint of your body, a change in the axis line can have significant effects on the extent that agonist muscle is activated. In this review, the authors critically present an analysis of potential injury risks by certain triceps brachii exercises. Hand positioning (pronation/supination) was suggested to influence activation of the long, medial and lateral heads of the Triceps Brachii. Yet, assessing the medial head activation with surface electromyography is still impossible as it cannot be recorded because of its anatomical situation. Secondly, some exercises can strain or damage passive tissues that are hard to be felt and thus will not alarm the exception but may deteriorate as time goes by until an injury is generated. Materials and Methods: The aim of this review to illustrate beneficial and contrary hand position changes, during different triceps brachii exercises with appropirate health aspects. This type of analysis aims to maximize congruence and coaxial alignment across joints, taking into account any overloading effects on certain ligaments which could potentially increase injury risk. Results: There is currently limited evidence in the literature supporting that one grip hand (pronated or supinated) target certain heads of the triceps brachii either more than other heads. However, a neutral hand grip might reduce injury risk and provide the most stability. As a result this positioning might additionally have advantage Conclusions: The single-joint triceps brachii strengthening exercises were categorized into three levels (good, moderate to good and poor) according joint safety and efficacy in this review. Nevertheless, the analysis did not account for stretch placement through exercises which may have stronger potential to increase hypertrophy.