Upper Arms Exercise · Barbell

Expand

Barbell Reverse Grip Skullcrusher

Also known as: Bb Reverse Grip Skullcrusher

Category

Upper Arms

Equipment

Barbell

Target

Triceps

Share Embed & Cite

Biomechanical cues verified by the PlanWorkouts Science Review Board under CSCS editorial oversight; see our editorial standards.

The reverse grip skullcrusher flips the hands underhand for the lying triceps extension, which changes the angle at the elbow and shifts more emphasis onto the long head of the triceps along with the forearms. It's a less common grip that takes some adjustment before it feels stable overhead. Keep the elbows steady and start with lighter weight than your standard skullcrusher until the groove feels secure.

How to Do the Barbell Reverse Grip Skullcrusher

1. Lie back flat on a bench, feet planted on the floor and your head near the end of the bench.
2. Grip the barbell with a reverse hold, palms turned toward your face, hands set shoulder-width apart.
3. Press the bar straight up above your chest, keeping your elbows tucked in and your wrists locked straight.
4. Bend your elbows to lower the bar slowly toward your forehead, keeping your upper arms fixed in place.
5. Hold briefly at the bottom, then straighten your arms to bring the bar back up.
6. Repeat for your target rep goal, keeping your core engaged and avoiding any reliance on momentum.

Biomechanical & Joint Load Cues

Single-joint elbow extension isolating the triceps brachii (lateral, medial, and long heads). Keep upper arm fixed to prevent shoulder momentum.

Common Mechanical Mistakes & Form Errors to Avoid

• Flaring Elbows Outward: Allowing elbows to wing outward during pushdowns or extensions shifts tension to the chest and shoulders while stressing elbow ligaments.
• Moving the Upper Arms: Swinging the humerus back and forth turns the movement into a lat pullover rather than isolated elbow extension.
• Incomplete Lockout Extension: Stopping short of full arm extension prevents full recruitment of the triceps medial and lateral heads.

Proper Breathing Patterns & Core Engagement

Inhale as elbow flexes to full stretch; exhale as forearm extends straight.

Injury Modification & Joint Safety

Individuals with triceps tendon irritation at the elbow should avoid excessive deep elbow flexion (>90°) on skull crushers and prefer cable pressdowns. If joint irritation persists, immediately stop and substitute this movement with another exercise from the Upper Arms exercises category.

Muscles Worked

The Barbell Reverse Grip Skullcrusher primarily targets the Triceps, with Forearms as the primary synergist muscle group.

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.

Bench Dip (knees Bent) 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 Reverse Grip Skullcrusher work?

The Barbell Reverse Grip Skullcrusher primarily targets the triceps as the primary agonist. The forearms acts as the primary supporting muscle group during force transmission. Maintaining strict biomechanical alignment ensures maximal tension remains focused on the intended muscle fibers rather than shifting to surrounding stabilizer joints.

What equipment do I need for the Barbell Reverse Grip Skullcrusher?

The Barbell Reverse Grip Skullcrusher is performed using a barbell. Ensure all equipment is securely positioned with collars or safety pins locked before loading working sets. If you train in a home gym or minimal setup, explore our equipment-free and resistance band alternatives below.

What is the most common form mistake on the Barbell Reverse Grip Skullcrusher?

The most frequent error is flaring elbows outward: Allowing elbows to wing outward during pushdowns or extensions shifts tension to the chest and shoulders while stressing elbow ligaments.. Controlling the 2 to 3-second eccentric lowering phase ensures maximal hypertrophic stimulus while shielding connective tissue.

How many sets and reps should I perform on the Barbell Reverse Grip Skullcrusher?

For muscle growth and density, execute 3 to 4 working sets of 10 to 15 controlled repetitions with 60 seconds rest, emphasizing a deep stretch and deliberate peak contraction on every rep.

What's a good alternative to the Barbell Reverse Grip Skullcrusher?

If you don't have access to a barbell, the Bench Dip (knees Bent) targets the same triceps using body weight instead. This alternative replicates the same joint angle and movement plane while allowing you to train effectively with different available gear. You can also substitute it seamlessly in our free Workout Plan Builder.