What is the difference between this and the Skull Crusher?

The movements are nearly identical, though the Barbell Triceps Extension typically refers to lowering the bar to the forehead, whereas the Skull Crusher often involves lowering it slightly behind the head for a greater stretch.

Should I use a straight bar or an EZ-curl bar?

An EZ-curl bar is often preferred because the angled grips reduce strain on the wrists and elbows compared to a standard straight barbell.

Is this exercise safe for people with elbow pain?

If you experience joint pain, try reducing the weight or switching to a neutral-grip dumbbell variation which may be more forgiving on the elbow connective tissue.

How to Do Barbell Triceps Extensions | Form and Guide

Master the barbell triceps extension with our expert guide. Learn proper form, avoid common mistakes, and build stronger arms with this isolation move.

How to Perform

Lie flat on a bench and hold the barbell with an overhand grip, hands spaced about shoulder-width apart.
Extend your arms fully to position the bar directly over your shoulders.
Bend your elbows to slowly lower the bar toward your forehead, keeping your upper arms stationary and perpendicular to the floor.
Stop the descent just before the bar touches your forehead to maintain constant muscle tension.
Contract your triceps to extend your arms and drive the bar back to the starting position.
Squeeze your triceps at the top of the movement without locking out your elbows abruptly.

Common Mistakes

Flaring the elbows out to the sides during the descent
Moving the upper arms back and forth instead of keeping them vertical
Using excessive momentum to bounce the weight from the bottom position
Lowering the bar too quickly without controlling the eccentric phase

Muscles Worked

Primary movers

Triceps

Stabilizers

Front Deltoids
Forearms
Core

Related Guides

Air Pushdown — Arms
Alternating Biceps Curls With Dumbbell — Arms
Alternating dumbbell hammer curl — Arms

Triceps · Arms