Barbell lying back of the head tricep extension
The barbell lying back of the head tricep extension, also known as skull crushers or French press, is an effective exercise for targeting the triceps. Performed lying on a bench, the exercise involves lowering a barbell to the forehead or behind the head and then extending the arms to lift the weight back up.

At a glance
- Area
- Upper arms
- Main muscle
- Triceps
- Equipment
- Barbell
- Level
- Intermediate
Form tips
- Keep your elbows close to your head throughout the movement.
- Lower the barbell slowly to maintain control.
- Avoid flaring your elbows out to prevent shoulder strain.
What to watch out for
- elbow injuries
- shoulder injuries
- limited shoulder mobility
Also known as
Estensioni tricipiti con bilanciere da sdraiato dietro la testa, skull crushers, french press, tricep extension, tricep workout