Barbell lying close-grip triceps extension
The barbell lying close-grip triceps extension, also known as skull crushers or French press, is an effective exercise for targeting the triceps. Performed lying on a bench, this exercise involves lowering a barbell towards 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 body to maximize triceps engagement.
- Lower the barbell slowly to avoid injury.
- Do not lock your elbows at the top of the movement.
What to watch out for
- elbow injuries
- shoulder injuries
- wrist pain
Also known as
Estensioni dei tricipiti con bilanciere su panca piana a presa stretta, skull crushers, French press, triceps extension, triceps workout