Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Barbell Skull Crusher.
The skull crusher is a classic triceps isolation exercise performed lying on a bench. The barbell is lowered toward the forehead or nose by bending the elbows, then pressed back to full extension. It targets all three heads of the triceps and is one of the most effective exercises for building upper-arm size and strength.
Common mistakes content is coming soon.
The Barbell Skull Crusher is a foundational movement that builds strength and muscle through controlled, progressive overload. Train it 1 to 2 times per week with 3 to 5 working sets per session, gradually adding weight or reps as form holds up.