Upper Arms Exercise · Dumbbell

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Dumbbell Lying Extension (across Face)

Lowering the dumbbell across the face rather than straight down toward the forehead changes the angle of stretch on the triceps, targeting the long head slightly differently than a standard skull crusher path. That diagonal path is a deliberate variation, not a mistake in form — it's meant to hit the triceps from an angle a straight lowering path misses. Go lighter than a standard lying extension until the path feels controlled, since it's a less common groove to control.

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Also known as: Db Lying Extension (Across Face), Dumbell Lying Extension (Across Face)

Category

Upper Arms

Equipment

Dumbbell

Target

Triceps

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Exercise reference published by PlanWorkouts; see our editorial standards.

How to Do the Dumbbell Lying Extension (across Face)

1. Lie back on a bench with your feet planted on the floor and your head positioned at the end of the bench.
2. Grip a dumbbell with both hands and press your arms straight up above your chest, palms facing one another.
3. Without moving your upper arms, lower the dumbbell in an arc back behind your head until your forearms are level with the floor.
4. Hold briefly, then engage your triceps to bring the dumbbell back to the start.
5. Complete your planned set count, emphasizing full range of motion and strong peak contraction 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 Dumbbell Lying Extension (across Face) 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 dumbbell? These target the same triceps with different equipment.

Body-Up Body Weight · Triceps Band Side Triceps Extension Band · Triceps Barbell Decline Close Grip To Skull Press Barbell · Triceps Cable Alternate Triceps Extension Cable · Triceps

FAQ

What muscles does the Dumbbell Lying Extension (across Face) work?

The Dumbbell Lying Extension (across Face) 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 Dumbbell Lying Extension (across Face)?

You do the Dumbbell Lying Extension (across Face) with a dumbbell. 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 Dumbbell Lying Extension (across Face)?

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 Dumbbell Lying Extension (across Face)?

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 Dumbbell Lying Extension (across Face)?

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.