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Triceps · Intermediate

Barbell Behind Head Skull Crusher

Triceps-focused pressing variation emphasizing controlled elbow extension.

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Barbell Behind Head Skull Crusher demonstration

Exercise overview

Training details

Triceps

Equipment

Barbell

Sets × reps

3 × 12

Rest

1 min

How to perform it

Step-by-step instructions

  1. 01Lie face up on a bench and hold a barbell above your shoulders with a close, comfortable overhand grip.
  2. 02Angle your upper arms slightly toward your head while keeping your shoulder blades stable.
  3. 03Bend only your elbows and lower the bar behind your head under control.
  4. 04Extend your elbows while keeping the upper arms nearly fixed.
  5. 05Stop short of a forceful lockout and rerack with a spotter.

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Variations

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Closely related versions of this movement with a different grip, setup, equipment, stance, or difficulty.

Related variationEZ-Bar Skull CrusherRelated variationCable Triceps PushdownRelated variationChain Skull CrusherRelated variationEZ Barbell Decline Triceps ExtensionRelated variationEZ Barbell Incline Triceps ExtensionRelated variationCable Straight-Bar Triceps Pushdown

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Alternatives

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Substitute exercises that train similar muscles or serve a comparable purpose in a workout.

Comparable substituteParallel Bar DipsComparable substituteLever Triceps Dip (plate loaded)Comparable substituteBench PressComparable substituteDumbbell Row to KickbackComparable substituteClose-Grip Push-UpComparable substituteBand Tate Press

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