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Exercise Library / Skullcrusher

Skullcrusher

The skullcrusher bends and straightens your elbows while lying on a bench to strengthen the triceps.

Strength Training

What this exercise does

The skullcrusher bends and straightens your elbows while lying on a bench to strengthen the triceps. The name sounds scary but the weight stays above your forehead, not on it.

At a glance

Body part
Arms
Muscles worked
Triceps
Experience
Intermediate

How to do it

  1. Lie on a bench with a barbell or dumbbells held above your chest, arms straight.
  2. Keep your upper arms still and pointing up.
  3. Bend your elbows to lower the weight toward your forehead.
  4. Stop just above your forehead.
  5. Straighten your arms. Do 8 to 10 reps.

Common mistakes

  • Letting the elbows flare out.
  • Moving the upper arms.
  • Using too heavy a weight.

Make it easier or harder

Make it easier

Use a light dumbbell, or do the move with a band.

Make it harder

Slow the lowering to three seconds.

Keep it safe

Use a weight light enough that you control it every inch. Dumbbells beside the head are safer than a bar over the face.

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