Barbell lying extension
The barbell lying 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 towards the forehead by bending the elbows and then extending the arms back to the starting position.

At a glance
- Area
- Upper arms
- Main muscle
- Triceps
- Equipment
- Barbell
- Level
- Intermediate
Form tips
- Keep your elbows tucked in to avoid flaring.
- Lower the barbell slowly to maintain control.
- Do not lock out your elbows at the top of the movement.
What to watch out for
- elbow injuries
- shoulder injuries
- wrist pain
Also known as
Estensioni con bilanciere su panca, skull crushers, French press, triceps exercise