Exercise guide

Dumbbell Skull Crusher

The Dumbbell Skull Crusher targets the triceps by bending and extending the elbows while lying on a bench.

Category
Strength
Difficulty
Intermediate
Movement
Compound
Bodyweight
No
How to

How to do the Dumbbell Skull Crusher

  1. 01

    Lie flat on a bench holding a dumbbell in each hand.

  2. 02

    Extend your arms straight above your chest with palms facing each other.

  3. 03

    Keep your upper arms still and elbows pointing upward.

  4. 04

    Bend your elbows to lower the dumbbells toward your forehead.

  5. 05

    Pause briefly near the bottom.

  6. 06

    Extend your elbows to return the dumbbells to the starting position.

Performance tips

Cues that matter

  • Keep your upper arms stable throughout
  • Avoid flaring your elbows excessively
  • Lower the weights slowly to maintain tension
Equipment

What you need

Common questions

Frequently asked

What muscles does the Dumbbell Skull Crusher work?

The Dumbbell Skull Crusher primarily targets the Triceps. Supporting muscles include Shoulders.

Is the Dumbbell Skull Crusher a compound or isolation exercise?

The Dumbbell Skull Crusher is a compound exercise, meaning it works multiple muscle groups and joints in a single movement.

What equipment do I need for the Dumbbell Skull Crusher?

You need the following equipment: Dumbbells.

What difficulty level is the Dumbbell Skull Crusher?

The Dumbbell Skull Crusher is rated as intermediate difficulty. Some training experience is helpful for performing this exercise safely.

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