Incline Skullcrusher

TricepsBarbell, Incline Bench

An incline bench skull crusher isolates the long head of the triceps with a greater stretch than flat variations. Done with control, it builds triceps size and enhances shoulder joint stability.

How to do it

1Set an incline bench, lie back, and hold the bar straight overhead.

2Angle your arms slightly backward behind your head to keep constant tension on the triceps.

3Keep your upper arms locked in place and bend your elbows, lowering the bar behind your head.

4Lower until you feel a comfortable stretch in your triceps without letting your elbows drift.

5Contract your triceps to extend your elbows and return to the angled start position.

Common mistakes

Lowering the bar to your forehead instead of behind your head reduces triceps stretch and stresses the elbows.

Moving your upper arms back and forth brings your back muscles into play.

Letting your elbows flare causes you to lose control and strains the joints.

Breathing

Inhale as you lower the bar behind your head; exhale as you extend your arms.

Make it harder or easier

To make it easier, use an EZ-bar to reduce wrist strain. To make it harder, add a pause at the bottom stretch.

This is general guidance, not a medical opinion. Listen to your body: if it hurts, stop. If you have an injury or a chronic condition, talk to a doctor first.