Upper Arms Exercise · Barbell

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Barbell Lying Extension

The barbell lying extension is the general triceps isolation movement most people know as a skull crusher, lowering the bar to the head or behind it while lying flat. The long range under tension is what makes it effective for triceps size, more so than heavier compound pressing where the triceps only work through part of the range. Keep the upper arms still and let the forearm do the moving.

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Also known as: Bb Lying Extension

Category

Upper Arms

Equipment

Barbell

Target

Triceps

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Exercise reference published by PlanWorkouts; see our editorial standards.

How to Do the Barbell Lying Extension

1. Lie on a bench with your feet flat on the floor and your head near the end of the bench.
2. Grip the barbell overhand, hands shoulder-width apart, extending your arms straight up over your chest.
3. With your upper arms held still, slowly bend your elbows to lower the barbell toward your forehead.
4. Pause briefly, then straighten your arms back to the starting position.
5. Perform for your targeted rep count, focusing on a deliberate tempo and maximum tension in the triceps.

Technique & Form Tips

Focus on controlled elbow extension while keeping your upper arms fixed in the position required by your specific variation, such as a pushdown or overhead extension. Manage your range of motion based on your own comfort during both flexion and extension.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Elbow migration: Keep the upper arm stationary to prevent the movement from turning into a different exercise.
• Inconsistent elbow tracking: Follow the intended path for your elbows to ensure they do not excessively flare outward.
• Forcing the end position: Straighten and bend the elbow through a controlled, comfortable range without snapping into the end position.

How to Breathe During This Exercise

Breathe continuously, matching your inhale and exhale to the pace of your repetitions.

Comfort and Control

Choose a load and range you can control. Stop if the movement causes pain. If discomfort persists, stop and ask a qualified professional about an appropriate exercise and range.

General guidance: Mayo Clinic on weight-training technique. Follow the specific movement steps above for this variation.

Muscles Worked

The Barbell Lying Extension mainly targets your Triceps, with your Shoulders helping support the movement.

More Upper Arms Exercises

Assisted Standing Triceps Extension (with Towel) Assisted · Triceps Assisted Triceps Dip (kneeling) Leverage Machine · Triceps Band Alternating Biceps Curl Band · Biceps Band Close-Grip Push-Up Band · Triceps Band Concentration Curl Band · Biceps Band One Arm Overhead Biceps Curl Band · Biceps

More Triceps Exercises

Band Side Triceps Extension Band · Triceps Barbell Close-Grip Bench Press Barbell · Triceps Barbell Decline Close Grip To Skull Press Barbell · Triceps Barbell Incline Close Grip Bench Press Barbell · Triceps Barbell Incline Reverse-Grip Press Barbell · Triceps Barbell Jm Bench Press Barbell · Triceps

Equipment Alternatives

Don't have barbell? These target the same triceps with different equipment.

Body-Up Body Weight · Triceps Band Side Triceps Extension Band · Triceps Cable Alternate Triceps Extension Cable · Triceps Dumbbell Close Grip Press Dumbbell · Triceps

FAQ

What muscles does the Barbell Lying Extension work?

The Barbell Lying Extension mainly works your triceps. Your shoulders also works to help support and steady your body. Using good, smooth form makes sure you work the right muscles and avoid unnecessary strain on your joints.

What equipment do I need for the Barbell Lying Extension?

You do the Barbell Lying Extension with a barbell. Make sure your equipment is set up safely before starting. If you work out at home or have limited gear, check out our alternative exercises below.

What form mistake should I watch for on the Barbell Lying Extension?

One mistake to watch for is elbow migration: Keep the upper arm stationary to prevent the movement from turning into a different exercise.. Use a comfortable range and a controlled return; reduce the load if you cannot maintain the demonstrated setup.

How many sets and reps should I perform on the Barbell Lying Extension?

To tone and grow muscle, do 3 to 4 sets of 10 to 15 smooth reps with 60 seconds of rest, focusing on a full stretch and squeezing the muscle at the top of each rep.

What's a good alternative to the Barbell Lying Extension?

The Body-Up trains your triceps with body weight and a similar movement pattern. Review its form guide before substituting it, since setup and range of motion can differ.