Exercise 2142 · REF vpQaQkH

Ski Ergometer exercise animation

Ski Ergometer

Category
Upper Arms
Target
Triceps

The ski erg mimics the double-pole motion of cross-country skiing — pulling handles down and back using the lats, triceps, and core rather than the legs, which makes it a rare cardio machine that hammers the upper body instead of sparing it. It's a favorite in conditioning circuits precisely because it fatigues the arms and core fast, unlike a bike or treadmill. Drive from the hips and core, not just the arms, or you'll gas out early.

How to Do the Ski Ergometer

  1. Adjust the seat height and footrests to a comfortable position.
  2. Grasp the handles with an overhand grip, palms facing down.
  3. Sit up straight with your feet flat on the footrests.
  4. Extend your arms straight out in front of you, keeping your elbows slightly bent.
  5. Engage your triceps and push the handles down towards your thighs.
  6. Pause for a moment at the bottom, then slowly return to the starting position.
  7. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.

Muscles Worked

The Ski Ergometer primarily targets the Triceps, with Shoulders as the primary synergist muscle group, along with the Forearms.

More Upper Arms Exercises

More Triceps Exercises

Equipment Alternatives

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

FAQ

What muscles does the Ski Ergometer work?
The Ski Ergometer primarily targets the triceps, with the shoulders and forearms assisting.
What equipment do I need for the Ski Ergometer?
The Ski Ergometer is done with a skierg machine.
What's a good alternative to the Ski Ergometer?
If you don't have access to a skierg machine, the Bench Dip (knees Bent) targets the same triceps using body weight instead.