Barbell Skullcrusher: A Comprehensive Guide

Setup

• Choose a barbell and weight appropriate for your strength level
• Lie flat on a weight bench with your feet firmly planted on the ground
• Grasp the barbell with an overhand grip, slightly wider than shoulder-width apart
• Extend your arms straight up and position the barbell over your chest, keeping your elbows slightly bent

How to Perform

• Lower the barbell towards your forehead by bending at the elbows
• Pause at the bottom of the movement, keeping the barbell close to your head
• Using your triceps, extend your arms back to the starting position
• Repeat for desired number of reps

Technique

• Keep your elbows close to your head throughout the exercise
• Maintain control of the barbell and avoid letting it drop too quickly
• Keep your upper arms stationary and focus on moving only at the elbow joint
• Make sure to fully extend your arms at the top of the movement for maximum activation of the triceps

Things to Avoid

• Bouncing the barbell off your forehead
• Using too heavy of a weight, causing loss of form and control
• Flaring your elbows out too far from your head
• Allowing your lower back to come off the bench during the exercise